On the Grote Markt in Bergen op Zoom stands a striking white building with a rich history: De Maagd. Once, this was a Catholic church, the Holy Virgin church, which was consecrated in 1829 after a construction period of five years. The church was intended for the Catholic inhabitants of the city centre, while the Protestants used the large Gertrudis church on the other side of the square.

De Maagd is built in a style often called Waterstaat style, but it actually belongs to Neoclassicism. This is especially evident in the stately facade and the calm, symmetrical lines. Inside, the church became more and more beautiful over the years, with a richly decorated altar, a large organ, stained-glass windows, and colourful paintings.

In the twentieth century, the building's role changed dramatically. The Catholic parish moved to the Gertrudis church, leaving De Maagd empty. The city was desperately in need of a theatre, and it was eventually decided to convert the church into a theatre. Following a major renovation and restoration, Stadsschouwburg De Maagd was officially opened by Princess Margriet in 1990.

On the outside, you can still recognise the old church, but the cross on the tower has been replaced by a gilded globe: a beautiful symbol for its new function. Inside, many historical details have been preserved, such as columns, capitals and stained-glass windows. At the same time, the building boasts modern theatre technology and comfortable halls.

Today, De Maagd is a vibrant venue for theatre, music, cabaret, and events. A particular example of how a monumental church was given a new lease of life as the cultural heart of the city.

For all information, programme, tickets etc: https://www.demaagd.nl/

The History and Construction of the Maiden

The Maiden also offers more information about her on her website History.

If you want to know more about the history and metamorphosis of the church into a theatre, and be able to see it at the same time, then you should join the city guides. During the tour, the guides will tell you the stories about the church (for example, how a dispute between Catholics and Protestants in the city led to the construction of this church) and will take you to all sorts of places in the building that relate to its religious past. Of course, they will also take you behind the scenes of the current theatre.
These guided tours are provided by the city guides every Wednesday at 11:00 AM.

You must reserve. More information and sign up with the city guides.