The former villa is not fully restored, but the contours of the building rise from the spot where it stood many centuries ago. The city of Tilburg will also landscape the fruit tree orchard and accompanying gardens and canals. Nursery Udenhout delivered the trees (Caucasian wingnuts, Pterocarya fraxinifolia) and other planting material. The company Van Esch, Cromvoirt, was responsible for the groundwork and planting.
Country Park Moerenburg
The city of Tilburg and water authority Waterschap de Dommel have developed it into a recreational area. This area builds the link between the city and the natural area Het Groene Woud. Moerenburg is situated between the Wilhelmina canal, the railroad Tilburg-Boxtel, the main road Burgemeester Bechtweg and highway A65. The construction of 20 ha new nature surrounding the river Voorste Stroom is one of the projects which has been initiated and finished. The original river course has been restored. River banks have been constructed and where the Voorste Stroom flows underneath the Meierijbaan, a dry green bridge has been developed.
The story behind Huize Moerenburg
The name Moerenburg is derived from the Dutch words ‘moer’ that means peat moor or moor and ‘borch’ which could mean as much as enhanced (brick) residence. The by water surrounding residence initially functioned as a (farm)house. In 1310 the house was first mentioned in the cities archives. In 1384 Huize Moerenburg was sold to the Abby of Tongerlo and was then used as a rectory. For almost three decades Huize Moerenburg had been the habitat of the pastor and the rectories of Tilburg and Enschot. Because of the Protestant Reformation Huize Moerenburg no longer was used as a rectory and around 1648 it was purchased by the Family Saint Amant. They renovated the house and it was assumed they created a French garden in the moor area. Around 1750 Huize Moerenburg was demolished. There are no building plans of the original house and no ruins were left standing. A painting that shows us how Huize Moerenburg probably would have looked liked those days now is the only reminder. The painting shows two lions made out of stone situated near the entrance. Based on this given, a 3D-object has been made and you can see it on www.moerenburg.info .
Nature development
The new nature consists of various types of grass lands and new ponds. To boost the recreational use of the area, new hiking trails also have been constructed, amongst others the Natuurontdekpad. On this trail you can read at 12 different points interesting information about the correlation between nature and culture. Furthermore you can experience and explore nature by completing some easy assignments. Interesting and worthwhile visiting for young and old!
