Walcheren facts for kids
Walcheren is a special area in the Netherlands, located in the province of Zeeland. It used to be an island, but now it's connected to the mainland by land. This means you can drive or walk onto Walcheren without needing a boat! In 2016, about 114,000 people called Walcheren home. It covers an area of 216 square kilometers. Walcheren includes three main towns: Middelburg, Veere, and Vlissingen.
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About Walcheren
Walcheren is known for its beautiful coastlines and rich history. Even though it's no longer a true island, it still feels like one because it's surrounded by water on three sides. The North Sea is to the west, and the Veerse Meer (a large lake) and the Westerschelde (an estuary) are to the north and south.
From Island to Peninsula
For a long time, Walcheren was a real island. It was separated from the rest of Zeeland by water. Over many years, people in the Netherlands have worked hard to reclaim land from the sea. They built dikes and dams, connecting islands to the mainland. This is how Walcheren became a peninsula. This process helped protect the land from floods and made it easier for people to travel.
Important Towns on Walcheren
Walcheren is home to some very interesting towns, each with its own unique story.
Middelburg: The Capital
Middelburg is the capital city of the province of Zeeland. It's a historic city with many old buildings and canals. One of its most famous landmarks is the Lange Jan (Long John) abbey tower. You can climb to the top for amazing views of Walcheren. Middelburg has a lively market square and is a great place to learn about the past.
Vlissingen: A Port City
Vlissingen (also known as Flushing in English) is a major port city on Walcheren. It's located on the Westerschelde estuary, which connects to the North Sea. This makes Vlissingen an important place for ships and trade. The city has a long boulevard where you can watch large ships pass by. It also has a rich maritime history, meaning it has always been connected to the sea and sailing.
Veere: A Historic Gem
Veere is a charming, historic town that feels like stepping back in time. It was once a very important trading port, especially for wool from Scotland. Many old houses and buildings from its wealthy past are still standing. The Grote Kerk (Great Church) is a large, impressive building that shows how important Veere once was. Today, Veere is a popular spot for tourists who want to experience its unique history and beautiful harbor.
Life on Walcheren
Life on Walcheren is a mix of old traditions and modern living. The area is known for its agriculture, especially growing crops like potatoes and sugar beets. Tourism is also very important, with many people visiting the beaches, historic towns, and beautiful countryside.
Protecting the Land
Because much of Walcheren is below sea level, protecting it from the water is very important. The Dutch are famous for their water management skills. They have built strong dikes and dunes along the coast to keep the sea out. This constant effort ensures that Walcheren remains a safe and beautiful place to live and visit.
Images for kids
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A map showing the topography of Walcheren.
