Westerlo — municipality in Antwerp province, Belgium
Westerlo is a municipality in the Belgian province of Antwerp, located in the Kempen region. It includes historic sites, rural landscapes and the Norbertine Tongerlo Abbey. Population about 23,000 (2007).
Westerlo is a municipality in the Belgian province of Antwerp, situated in the Kempen (Campine) region of northern Belgium. The town lies near 51°05′N, 04°55′E and had a population of about 23,230 in 2007. Administratively it forms part of the Arrondissement of Turnhout and is governed as a typical Belgian local authority with a mayor and municipal council.
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Geography and settlements
The municipality covers a mix of small urban centers, agricultural land and heathland typical of the Kempen. Westerlo includes several villages and residential neighborhoods surrounded by woods and farmland. Its landscape is valued for outdoor recreation and rural character, with local roads linking it to larger towns in Antwerp province.
History and landmarks
Westerlo has medieval roots and developed around local estates and farming communities. A prominent historic site is Tongerlo Abbey, a Norbertine monastery with origins in the Middle Ages and a museum open to visitors. These landmarks reflect the area's ecclesiastical and rural heritage.
Economy, transport and community life
The local economy mixes agriculture, small businesses and services; many residents commute to larger employment centers in the Antwerp region. Public transport is provided by regional bus services and roads connect Westerlo with nearby towns. Community life features local festivals, sports clubs and cultural activities typical of Belgian municipalities.
Practical information
- Coordinates: 51°05′N, 04°55′E.
- Population: approximately 23,230 (2007 census).
- Administrative links and local services can be found on the municipal website and regional portals for Antwerp province and the Turnhout arrondissement.
Related articles
Author
AlegsaOnline.com Westerlo — municipality in Antwerp province, Belgium Leandro Alegsa
URL: https://en.alegsaonline.com/art/107485
Sources
- statbel.fgov.be : Werkelijke bevolking per gemeente op 1 januari 2007 / Population de droit par commune au 1 janvier 2007 (.xls)
- statbel.fgov.be : Geografische coördinaten van de gemeenten (.xls)