Dramatic developments are not restricted to prehistoric and early historic Wijchen. The last few centuries have also often been dramatic. The strategic location of the ‘Land of Maas and Waal’ means that is has often been fought over – first by local and regional feudal lords and during the Second World War by the occupying German Army and the armies of the allies who came to liberate the area. In recent decades history has also not stood still. After the war Wijchen was a village of barely three thousand people – today there are nearly forty thousand.
As well as the permanent exhibit over the castles of Wijchen, Hernen, Batenburg, Balgoij and Leur, the department organises thematic temporary exhibitions. These often occur ‘on location’ in one of the villages in the parish, or next to a historic building or monument. For the location of current temporary exhibits, see the agenda. The department also organizes regular trips and excursions, that explore the history of the area. The dates of these activities, and of lectures and symposia are also under Activities.