Image Copyright: Kurt Zich

Brüggen is situated right in the middle of the nature reserve Schwalm-Nette.

The medieval townscape of Brüggen is very charming and a deserving destination. There are many cafes, restaurants and shop in the narrow winding alleys.

Image Copyright: Kurt Zich

Brüggen exists thanks to its location. In the only passable place over the river Schwalm, a crossing of two trade routes arose between the river Rhine and Maas. It was first mentioned in 897.

Image Copyright: Kurt Zich

The earls of Kessel secured this place with a castle facility. The castle was set on a high gravel island based on the Dutch model.

In 1473 Duke Charles the Bold occupied the Brüggen castle. The castle was owned by the dukedom Jülich and was border fortress for the dukedom until 1794.

Image Copyright: Kurt Zich

In 1804 the castle was sold by the French occupying forces to a private citizen and little by little three-quarter of the former four-tower castle as well as the enormous fortification fell victim to razings and winning of building material.

'Since 1979 the museum 'Human and Hunting' is accommodated in the castle's palace and donjon. Since May 2000 the castle houses in addition the Tourist-Information of the community Brüggen, and since September 2002 also a nature reserve information place.'

Source: Community Brüggen