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Middelburg - charming ancient small town with a provincial way of life. Again erected buildings have not changed medieval shape of a city. On its ancient buildings and today it is possible to read the ancient motto of inhabitants of Zealand: Â" I struggle and win Â". Middelburg there is no time played the big role in economic development of the country. In XVII century boards and warehouse (their buildings have remained and until now) widely known mogushchestvennejshih East Indian, and later - Vest-Indsky the companies here took places. For these companies Middelburg was the basic centre of storage and distribution of the spices which were brought from extensive colonial possession of the Netherlands and on sale in the European countries. With a view of preservation of high profits on sale of spices of the company strictly watched maintenance of the prices for them and did not suppose excess of the offer over demand. Surpluses of spices brought to the Netherlands were simply destroyed, for their cost, in its initial, politekonomicheskom value, was low - the cheap slave labour plus transport expenses, and here the price sometimes in hundreds times was exceeded by cost at the expense of what there were high profits. Dutches burnt surpluses of the goods. Contemporaries noticed, that the smell of burnt spices was at that time distinctive line not only Middelburg, but also all island Valheren on which it is located.
The Second World War has not avoided Middelburg. Fascists have subjected to its fierce bombardment already after signing by the Netherlands of the certificate about capitulation. But to Middelburg has carried more than to Rotterdam. Many ancient constructions having a historical value, have remained up to now.
Especially decorate a city burgomistrat (was under construction in 1452-1520) and the building erected in 1607-1611 in which the board of the East Indian company took places, and since 1795 - within more than 150 years-military men hospital.
But the great pleasure delivers walk on abbey. Faultless from the point of view of architecture the ensemble breathes olden time. The extensive paved courtyard with century trees has to rest and meditation.
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