Heritage and culture in Westerwolde

From an evening at the theatre in a cosy atmosphere to a quirky museum with innovative exhibitions. We’ll take you on a tour of various spots in the Westerwolde region where you can experience a wide variety of heritage and culture at your leisure.

Museum het MOW | modern and distinctive

Bellingwolde – Nestled amongst the ancient trees stands the modern and quirky MOW museum, which hosts an ever-increasing number of innovative exhibitions. Large and small exhibitions go hand in hand here. Often centred on art, but also with an eye for the history of the Westerwolde region. Young culture lovers are also catered for with ‘MOW Young’. They follow their own route and can take part in all sorts of artistic activities. A museum for everyone.

Read more

Fort Oudeschans | the smallest fortified village

Oudeschans – In 1593, during the Eighty Years’ War, the smallest fortified village was founded: Oudeschans. More than 200 years later, in 1814, Oudeschans ceased to be a fortified village. However, little has changed in the village’s layout. Take a step back in time and follow the marked route along the former defensive ramparts, past the old Westerwoldse Aa and through the picturesque fortified village. Don’t forget to pop into the Fortification Museum and delve into the history of the fortifications.

Read more

Sellingen Wheelwright’s Workshop | The ancient landscape

Sellingen – In the medieval village of Sellingen stands an old cartwright’s workshop, where cart wheels and wooden tools were once made for the village’s farmers. Nowadays, the building – one of the oldest (still standing) in the village – has been converted into an exhibition space. Discover the history of the Westerwolde landscape through the permanent exhibition ‘Westerwolde at a Glance’. Or be surprised by the temporary exhibition on display in the barn.

Read more

Museums in Bourtange | A journey through time

Bourtange – When you arrive in Bourtange, you’ll naturally be drawn to ‘ de fort ’. One of Westerwolde’s most significant historical sites. And here you can visit not just one, but several museums and exhibitions. Everywhere you go, you’ll embark on an impressive journey through time. At Terra Mora, for instance, you’ll discover the relationship between the marsh and de fort; at the De Baracquen museum, old everyday objects are on display; and you can take a look inside an old captain’s house. You shouldn’t miss the Synagogue or Het Nieuwe Kruithuis, where as much as 45,000 pounds of gunpowder was once stored. In short, there’s plenty to keep you busy for a whole day.

Read more

Theater Geert Teis | The cultural heart

Stadskanaal – On the border between Groningen and Drenthe lies the leading regional theatre, Geert Teis. It has been the cultural heart of the region for many years. When you step inside, this medium-sized theatre exudes warmth and conviviality. Whether you prefer to watch local talent, enjoy an intimate performance or come to see the bigger names, Geert Teis is the right place for everyone. It’s no surprise that the theatre is a household name in Stadskanaal and the surrounding area.

Read more

Streekhistorisch Centrum | Huize ter Marse

Stadskanaal – Next to the Water Tower, you’ll find the old manor farm Huize ter Marse, which has stood there since 1884. The house has a rich history, making it the ideal location for the Streekhistorisch Centrum. Inside the house, there is plenty to discover – in words and pictures – about the history of the Kanaalstreek, Westerwolde and the peat villages of Drenthe. Find out how and why the Stadskanaal was dug. Or pop into the old-fashioned shop, where waiting skippers used to pop in to do their shopping. Who knows, you might even spot a few familiar products!

Read more

Discover more

Don’t miss a thing in Groningen

Would you like the best tips for Groningen delivered to your inbox every month? Sign up below for the Groningen newsletter