Step outside your bubble and visit Moerenburg

“Wait. You have to come and see NOW.” The interview for this article has been underway for a while when Rosemarijn van de Wiel jumps up from her chair. “There, look, there it is. A green woodpecker.” It's just possible here. So close to the center of Tilburg.” Rosemarijn, owner of Forgotten Fruit - she picks and processes fruit from trees of people who don't want to or can't do it themselves. Sitting next to her is Maartje Schel, founder of Allemans. Two Tilburg entrepreneurs with a green and social heart, who also work together a lot.

In the Flemish barn, plum jam is prepared with plums from the Allemansgaard, picked by, among others, participants of project Lionel, a talent program for young people with a refugee background. This initiative, developed by Maartje together with coach Ellis Pruijn and Sterk Huis, brings together diverse communities. “For example, Rosemarijn cares about forgotten fruit and knows all about picking and processing it. Allemans is there for vulnerable Tilburgers, like Lionel's youth,” Maartje says.

At first glance, Allemans is the odd man out in the 'Nature on Your Plate' series. After all, Maartje does not sell regional products from her foundation. And Allemans is not always open to everyone, except during special walks or open days. On the other hand, the jam from Vergeten Fruit - made in Allemans' kitchen - can be found at a local market near you. The same goes for the wooden spoons from Studio JAHE, made with wood from Moerenburg, at Allemans. And for the handmade sourdough breads of micro bakery Deesem, fresh from the monumental bakery of Allemans. The work of the artist working temporarily at Allemans thus encourages budding artists with an artist in residency spot, which can be found elsewhere in the city.

Escape the crowds and discover the mysterious charm of Moerenburg, that green oasis east of the city. Explore the abandoned water treatment plant, bike past historic farms and enjoy the tranquility. Plan your visit today!