Discover Made: Molenplein, Remembrance and Culture

Made combines a star-shaped town centre with local remembrance, guided walking tours and recurring events. The focal point of the street plan is Molenplein (Gaymansplantsoen), where six streets meet. There used to be a windmill there. If you are looking for a hotel in Made, the different themes can help you decide what to focus on during your stay: local history, cultural events, a walking route or a culinary experience.

Molenplein and local history

The sculpture “De Molenaar” stands on Molenplein, which also has a fountain, benches and outdoor seating. Locals, children and tourists all use the square. Its features may change over time. Molenplein brings together several facets of the town centre: its role in the star-shaped street plan, the former windmill and the square’s present-day design.

Remembrance and local memory

The “Pools Oorlogsmonument” commemorates Made’s liberation on 4 October 1944. It bears the names of 42 war victims from Made and Drimmelen. The monument also commemorates the role of the 1st Polish Armoured Division in liberating the region. These details link a specific date and the remembrance of people from two towns with a broader regional historical context.

The name Oos Jaas is also part of the town’s collective memory. The bronze sculpture “Oos Jans” depicts Johanna van der Steen-van Zwol, who was known as “Oos Jaas”. She ran a café for many years and was closely connected to village social life. Alongside remembrance of wartime, it also draws attention to an individual and her role in village life in the past.

Walking tours and a walking route

The Heemkundekring Made-Drimmelen organises guided walking tours of Made and Drimmelen. The association also shares knowledge of local history through lectures, excursions and exhibitions. Tour dates may vary, so check the association’s latest information before making plans.

Another way to explore Made on foot is the “Wandelen door Made en omgeving” route. It is 13.5 kilometres long and takes about 3 hours and 23 minutes. Route conditions may change. While the guided tours depend on scheduled dates, the route’s approximate duration gives you a specific guide for planning your time.

Carnival and live rock

“Oos Jaas” is a symbol of the Mayenèrs. Every year, an enlarged, five-metre-tall figure is carried in both the children’s parade and the main carnival parade. The recurring tradition is therefore part of two different parades. Its timing is distinct from the edition schedule of the live event “Top 100 Made Live”.

“Top 100 Made Live” is an eleven-hour rock event in Made. Six regional cover bands from West and Central Brabant perform a total of 100 rock songs. The line-up and dates vary by edition. If you would like to include the event in your plans, check the date and line-up for the edition you want to attend.

Alpaca Break

At Alpaca Break, you can enjoy a high tea or an extensive lunch among alpacas and feed the animals. Tables can be reserved via the website; reservations are recommended. The experience combines a meal with the opportunity to feed the animals. It adds another way to spend time in Made alongside its local history, walking tours and events.

Discover more destinations: Hooge Zwaluwe, Wagenberg, Drimmelen, Terheijden, Lage Zwaluwe.

Back to the main travel overview: Drimmelen.