Kruibeke - Belgium

**Welcome to Kruibeke: A Charming Belgian Municipality** Tucked away in the picturesque province of East Flanders, Belgium, lies the municipality of Kruibeke. Comprising the charming towns of Bazel, Kruibeke proper, and Rupelmonde, this municipality is home to a population of 16,657 residents (as of January 2018) spread across an area of 33.42 km². **Rich History and Culture** Kruibeke's rich history dates back centuries, with the oldest secular centre being the majestic feudal castle of Wissekerke at Bazel. This stunning castle was once inhabited by the esteemed Vilain family until 1989. Today, it stands as a testament to the region's storied past. **A Unique Approach to Community Building** In an innovative move, Kruibeke's former mayor Antoine Denert introduced the Department of Tenderness in March 2003. This forward-thinking initiative aimed to encourage residents to show kindness and affection towards one another, recognizing that simple gestures can go a long way in building stronger community bonds. **Governance and Future Developments** From 2013 to 2018, Mayor Jos Stassen led a majority coalition of local parties SamenVoorKruibeke (Vooruit, Groen, and Open VLD) and CD&V. In 2018, Dimitri van Laere took over as mayor, forming a new majority with N-VA, CD&V, and independent members. As part of their vision for the future, this coalition has been working towards merging Kruibeke with neighboring municipalities Beveren and Zwijndrecht by the end of 2024 or early 2025. **Living in Kruibeke** Kruibeke offers a unique blend of history, culture, and community spirit. Residents can enjoy easy access to amenities (B- score), a relatively short commute (B- score), and decent healthcare options (B score). While the municipality may not be top-ranked in terms of childcare and education facilities (B- score) or cultural activities (B score), it makes up for this with its low noise pollution levels (A- score). Overall, Kruibeke is a charming Belgian municipality that offers residents a tranquil atmosphere, rich history, and innovative community initiatives.

Kruibeke

Kruibeke
Country: Belgium
Population: 16657
Area: 33.42 square kilometre
Web: https://www.kruibeke.be/