Arendonk

Arendonk is a municipality located in the Belgian province of Antwerp. The municipality comprises only the town of Arendonk proper.

Demographics

On January 1, 2016 Arendonk had a total population of 13, 142. The total area is 55.38 km² (21.38sq mi) which gives a population density of 240 inhabitants per km² or (610 per sq mi).

The spoken language is Kempenlands; (an East Brabantian dialect, which is very similar to colloquial Dutch).

Nickname

The nickname for a person living in Arendonk is "Telowerelè'er" meaning dish-licker. A statue impersonating the nickname is located in proximity of the Toremansmolen windmill, another attraction. The mill is still operational and can be visited regularly. The mayor of this city is called Kristof Hendrickx.

History

In 1212 Arendonk received the city rights of Henry I, Duke of Brabant.

There it was under the branches of a lime tree on the Heath in 1715  that Bartel Pegh was sentenced to death after stealing two oxen.

In the middle ages, Arendonk was known for falconry. Catching and training birds of prey was a specialty that was known to many royal houses.

Then in 1640 Arendonk was given permission to set up linen-weaving mills which brought  great prosperity for the population.

In the 19th century came the cigar industry, and in its heyday annually 30 million cigars were manufactured. 

Attractions:

Arendonk's Academy of art located in a former cigar factory of "Karel I sigaren"

OLV Church Arendonk

Toremansmolen windmill; still operational and open for visits.

Source https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arendonk