Exhibition WWII stories from the Kempen in the Maria Tower Hapert

About the Mariatoren in Hapert

The Mariatoren is located in Hapert along the A67, within the Kempisch Business Park (KBP), a 69-hectare industrial estate at a unique location that meets all the conditions necessary for a business to thrive. The business park is a joint initiative of the municipalities of Bladel, Eersel, Bergeijk, and Reusel-De Mierden and is strategically situated in the successful Kempen region, the gateway to Brainport Eindhoven. The region is known for its advanced manufacturing industry, with the global player ASML located nearby, just about 14 kilometers from the tower. The tower also stands at an important logistical crossroads on the A67. This highway connects the ports of Antwerp and Rotterdam with Germany and the rest of Europe.

The Mariatoren is an initiative of SchipVast—the real estate branch of The Schippers Group—and the Kempisch Business Park. The tower is named after Maria Schippers, who, together with Martien Schippers, founded The Schippers Group. The tower is approximately 22 meters high and serves a dual purpose. In addition to functioning as an observation tower, it also serves as an information mast. On three large LED screens, each measuring 25 square meters, businesses and social organizations can broadcast advertising messages.

Observation Function and Exhibition of Stories from the Region

The Kempen region is known for its numerous walking, cycling, equestrian, and carriage routes, with several routes passing through the business park. The observation tower is connected to these recreational routes. From a height of approximately 22 meters, there is a view of the Kempisch Business Park, the highway, and the Cartierheide. As you climb the tower, information and stories about the region are presented on information panels with images, created in collaboration with local historical societies. Each year features a different theme. Each story also has a QR code that links to a video or website with more information about the featured story.

World War II Theme in the Mariatoren from Liberation Day

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Kempen, as well as the rest of Brabant. It is a moment to reflect and realize that we are fortunate to live in freedom. Starting on Liberation Day, stories from that time in the Kempen can be read in the Mariatoren in Hapert, including stories about hiding and the resistance.

Practical Information

The Mariatoren is located at exit 29 of the A67 and can be reached by bicycle and on foot from De Pan Hapert (the forest area to the west of the business park). You can also reach the tower by car from that side, but you must park at De Pan and walk through the forest to the tower. The tower is not wheelchair accessible. The tower is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and the entrance fee is €1 per person, payable contactless by card at the entrance. Half of the entrance proceeds go to the historical society, the organization that keeps the stories of the past alive. Google Maps recognizes the Mariatoren on its map; click here for the link to Google Maps.