Historical Vlissingen

The name Vlissingen was already known in the year 620. At that time, Vlissingen was still a simple fisherman's hamlet. In 917, a village was built. In the years that followed, Vlissingen continued to develop, until by the 17th century it had become one of the most important port cities in the Netherlands. The centuries of history have left their traces in the city. You'll notice them during your stay. Walking through Vlissingen, you will come across many interesting monuments. For example, the statue of Michiel de Ruyter, and our very own Timmerfabriek.

Michiel de Ruyter, naval hero of Vlissingen

Michiel Adriaenszoon de Ruyter was born in Vlissingen on 24 March 1607. A lot is known about our naval hero, but not everything. Like the house where Michiel was born.

Michiel de Ruyter is not just a hero. He was also a merchant. His apprenticeship was obvious. For years, he worked for Cornelis Lampsins, who amassed enormous wealth as an entrepreneur through privateering, among other things. A few years after Lampsins had the country estate Lammerenburg built, a beautiful house with a distinguished natural stone facade arose on Nieuwendijk in 1641. Today, the building is part of the Zeeuws Maritiem muZEEum.

Michiel de Ruyter's nickname at the time was 'Bestevâer'. He was given this nickname by the sailors who served under him. He was strict but fair, took good care of his crews and fulfilled his obligations as best he could.

Michiel de Ruyter and Vlissingen are forever linked by a statue on the Boulevard.

De Timmerfabriek

This magnificent 1914 industrial heritage building used to be part of the famous Scheldewerf in Vlissingen and served as the workshop where furniture for ship interiors was manufactured.

In 2010, the Timmerfabriek was restored. It is a magnificent maritime building with many possibilities and was used for several events until 2020, like dance festivals, a pop-up restaurant and corporate events.

From event location to 4-star hotel

In 2022, the Timmerfabriek the transformation into a luxury 4-star hotel with a restaurant was finished. The building has 68 luxurious rooms and suites, a restaurant, a bar and a large terrace. The unique industrial atmosphere and gastronomic setting makes sleeping in Hotel de Timmerfabriek a special experience.

The Queen Emma ferry

In 1933, three new side-loading ferries come into service for the PSD. The Koningin Emma (Queen Emma) was the first. It was a modern diesel ship with good accommodation and a car deck. Thanks to efforts by PSDnet.nl and Kloeg Collection, the Koningin Emma is now docked in Vlissingen as the Hotelboot Koningin Emma.

Curious about our country's other monuments? Visit the Monumentenportaal!