Duchy of Gelre Route Achterhoek

The Achterhoek region boasts a rich medieval past, a history that has left its mark on the landscape. Gelderland boasts the highest density of castles in the Netherlands, most of which are located in the Achterhoek region. In the 11th century, the County of Guelders was established, which from the 14th century onwards was called the Duchy of Guelders. In the Late Middle Ages, Guelders was an important political power bloc in northwestern Europe. It consisted of four districts, with Nijmegen, Arnhem, Zutphen, and Roermond as its capitals. The last duke of the "old school" was Charles of Guelders. Shortly after his death in 1538, Guelders was absorbed by the Burgundian Empire. With that, the medieval period ended. This route takes you past four monuments: Wisch Castle in Terborg, the Old Count's Tower Mill in Zeddam, Huis Bergh Castle in 's-Heerenberg, and the St. Anthony's Chapel in Sinderen. The starting point of the route is the DRU in Ulft. The DRU is a symbol of the Achterhoek region's iron industry. The old industrial factory buildings have since become listed buildings and have been given a second life. The DRU complex now houses a theater, library, concert hall, hotel, and office. It also offers meeting rooms, restaurants, and housing. The Dutch Iron Museum will soon open here. The route follows the cycle junction system, allowing you to shorten the route to either an eastern or western route at junctions 53 and 68.