About the Location
Everything about the past, for everyone today: Breda City Archives & Archaeology collects and preserves the history of the city and its residents.
The Chassé Barracks was the original main building of the sprawling military complex located on the eastern edge of the city. Built in 1898–1899, it was designed to have a military appearance with its corner towers, battlements, and faux embrasures.
The style is officially described as Neo-Renaissance. The building was designed according to the so-called pavilion system. Concrete was used in its construction, a very modern building material for that time. The barracks are named after General Baron Chassé (1765–1849), who is best known for his defense of the citadel of Antwerp.
Since 1998, the Breda City Archives & Archaeology has been housed in this building. Here, we collect and preserve the history of the city and its residents. We make this rich history available free of charge—in words and images, both in person and online.
The city archives have been in existence for over 160 years, but our oldest item dates all the way back to 1269! It takes a lot of work to safely preserve our centuries-old collection and make it accessible. No pests in the storage area, proper climate control, and the right boxes. These may seem like obvious measures, but keeping 12 kilometers of archives safe, dry, and clean is a full-time job!
Activities
Detectives in the Archives!
Go on a journey of discovery through the archives and dive into the past! During this scavenger hunt, you’ll visit special places and search for fascinating stories, old documents, and archaeological finds. Discover how our heritage is preserved, even when it’s sometimes fragile or at risk. Collect the right answers: can you solve the riddle afterward?
This scavenger hunt is fun for curious kids and for anyone who wants to learn more about the past. Search, discover, and learn together: experience the archives in a surprising way!
During Breda’s Open Monument Days, you can go on the scavenger hunt anytime from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.! No reservation or set start time is required.
Vlaszak Historical Walk
Breda City Archives & Archaeology takes you on a tour of the renovated Vlaszak. Thanks to archaeological research conducted on the Vlaszak and Oude Vest, we now know even more about this part of the (medieval) city. Join the walk and learn all about the archaeology hidden beneath the cobblestones here!
– Starts at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays
– Maximum of 15 people per group
– By reservation only
Layer by layer: the future of traditional crafts
Discover the possibilities of 3D printing in the study room and see how craftsmanship and innovation come together. Lucas from Apollon3D will introduce you to this modern technique through ongoing demonstrations and examples. From design to the printing process: ideas come to life here layer by layer. A contemporary perspective on how craftsmanship continues to evolve and heritage lives on with resilience.
– Open continuously on Saturday and Sunday.
Talent in a Monument
With “Talent in a Monument,” KOP presents the work of five recent graduates from St. Joost School of Art & Design. Their contemporary works engage in a dialogue with historic monuments and the theme “Resilient Heritage.”
In the greenhouse at Breda Botanique, you can discover the work The Lesbian Look by Adrienne Rijnfrank and the work Manusje the Troll Who Can Do Anything by Caitlin Becker Hof.
The works by Matthijs van de Berg, Timon Ramacher, and Ties van de Water can be found at the Grote Kerk Breda, the Johanneskerk, and the Sint Martinuskerk.
– Open continuously on Saturday and Sunday.
Exhibition: Wayang Puppets and Their Resilient Stories
The Arjati Foundation presents the exhibition: Wajang puppets and their resilient stories. Especially for the Breda Open Monument Days, we’re bringing the most beautiful puppets from the Indisch Museum, and they’ll share their stories in the green surroundings of Breda Botanique, right on top of the City Archives.
– Open continuously on Saturday and Sunday.
Reservations
Admission to the Vlaszak Historical Walk is by reservation only. Reservations can be made via omdbreda.nl starting Monday, August 24, at 12:00 PM. Space is limited; first come, first served.