Veendam

The town of Veendam was once formed by a separation of the churches of Zuidbroek and Muntendam. The new church village came to be called Veendam. Veendam's history only really came to life when the extraction of peat increased in the region. Veendam was in a strategic position and grew into an industrial town at that time. Coastal shipping and agriculture became important pillars of the local economy. You can still find reminders of these times, for instance an old peat power station now houses a cultural breeding ground. In the Veenkoloniaal Museum you will learn all about this history.

You can still recognise Veendam's past when you walk through the town. In total, as many as 41 national monuments can be found in the town. These include the neo-Holland-Renaissance-style town hall and the Wilkensfontein from 1934. STAR museum trains also arrive at the station from Stadskanaal. For a cultural evening out, visit Theater vanBeresteyn. The theatre regularly hosts national and local performances.

There is much more to do in the city centre. You will find a wide range of shops for shopping and you can dine at the various restaurants. The city squares also regularly host fun activities. Every week, for instance, you will find a cosy market with fresh products on Museumplein and Raadhuisplein.

Anyone viewing Veendam from a great height will see that the city is surrounded by a large amount of greenery. Veendam is therefore known as Parkstad Veendam. Both in the surrounding area and in the city itself, there is plenty for nature lovers. For instance, there is the stately Julianapark in the centre of Veendam. Here there are plenty of places to sit down for a while during a city walk. On the outskirts of the city you will find park Borgerswold. Here, for example, you will find the Veenjagerspad where young and old can expend their energy on the outdoor (play) equipment. Golf enthusiasts can also visit this recreational area, where Golfclub De Compagnie's course is almost always playable and beautifully green.