Best of Turnhout

Turnhout Essentials

Turnhout, the capital of the Kempen region, is defined by its ducal history and diverse religious heritage. This selection features the 12th-century Castle of the Dukes of Brabant and the UNESCO-listed Beguinage. Architectural highlights range from the towering neo-Gothic Heilig Hartkerk to the modernist Sint-Franciscus van Assisikerk. Cultural institutions like the Taxandria Museum and the Begijnhofmuseum provide insight into regional archaeology and the history of the beguines, while the Grote Bentel windmill stands as a remnant of the city's industrial past.

Turnhout Essentials — Map

M.Minderhoud / CC-BY-SA-3.0

A

Kasteel van de Hertogen van Brabant

Moated 12th-century stronghold rebuilt in the 16th century. Historically the residence of the Dukes of Brabant, it now serves as a court of law.

IDD5000 / CC BY-SA 4.0

B

Sint-Pieterskerk

Gothic basilica featuring a 13th-century core. The interior houses an elaborate Baroque pulpit and notable religious artworks.

C

Heilig Hartkerk

Monumental neo-Gothic church reaching a height of 92 meters. Its massive proportions make it one of the most prominent landmarks in the city skyline.

D

Begijnhofmuseum

Set within the UNESCO-recognized Beguinage, this museum details the history and daily routines of the lay religious community that lived here until the 20th century.

E

Grote Bentel

A historic brick beltmolen (windmill) that no longer grinds grain but remains a preserved example of regional industrial heritage.

F

Taxandria

Housed in the historic Huis met de Thien Geboden, this museum explores the archaeology, history, and folklore of the Taxandria region.

G

Heilig Kruiskerk

A Roman Catholic place of worship located in the historic center, forming part of the city's extensive religious heritage.

H

Sint-Franciscus van Assisikerk

A 20th-century church in the Schorvoort district representing modernist architecture, designed by architect René Van Steenbergen.

I

Heilige Geesthuis

Historical heritage site located near the castle, historically associated with local social welfare and community support.

J

Hofpoortteater Elckerlijc Turnhout

A local performing arts venue hosting a variety of theatrical productions and cultural events in the heart of the city.

Other Lists

Heritage Sites of Turnhout Museums and Galleries Churches and Chapels Parks & Recreation