The Sint-Annakapel

The Sint-Annakapel is a small chapel dedicated to Saint Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary. The chapel has been in existence since the 14th century and has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries.

• In the Middle Ages, the chapel was part of the Heusdenhout estate, which was owned by the noble family of Van Heusden. The chapel served as a private place of worship for the family and their guests.
• In the 17th century, the chapel underwent significant renovations, including the addition of a new tower and the installation of stained-glass windows.
• In the 19th century, the chapel was restored to its original medieval appearance after falling into disrepair.

Today, the Sint-Annakapel is still an active place of worship for the local community. It is also open to visitors during certain times of the year, offering a glimpse into Breda's rich history and cultural heritage.

1. The chapel has a unique tower with an octagonal shape and a bell that dates back to the 17th century.
2. The interior of the chapel features beautiful stained-glass windows, as well as intricate stone carvings and ornate woodwork.
3. The chapel has been used for various purposes over the centuries, including as a meeting place for the local council and as a location for charity events.

The Sint-Annakapel is located in Heusdenhout, a former village and current neighborhood of Breda. The chapel was founded around 1518 to serve the residents in the immediate vicinity, who found it too far to walk to church in Breda. The chapel was heavily damaged during the Eighty Years' War.

• In 1581, the thatched roof was replaced with a tiled roof after being damaged during the Fury of Houtepen.
• In 1595, the chapel was restored.
• After the chapel was seized by the Reformers in 1648, it served as a Protestant church and also functioned as a school building. There were hardly any Protestants, and when the school ceased to operate, the building was used as a shed and stable.

In 1921, the chapel came into possession of the parish of Our Lady of Good Counsel. From 1934 to 1936, the chapel underwent restoration according to plans by Hendrik Willem Valk and was again used as a chapel. During the restoration, the roof tiles were replaced with thatched roofing once more.

Before 1648, almost none of the rich inventory that existed then remains today.