’s charming town centre Gilze originated from the ‘Villa Gillesa cum appendiciis’. In 992, the Countess of Strijen was the owner of this extensive estate. She is said to have donated it to the Abbess of Thorn at the beginning of the 12th century. This makes Gilze one of the oldest settlements in Grensland De Baronie. Today, Gilze boasts a charming village square with a large terrace where you can enjoy a bite to eat and a drink.