Virmuntse Hoeve

The Virmuntse Hoeve is a former farmhouse converted into residential housing. The farm was built in 1886, after its predecessor was destroyed by fire. The new farm was built right next to the burned farm. The old Virmuntse Hoeve was founded by Ambrosius Baron de Lerod Virmundt, German Order Commander of Gemert (1661 - 1684). A devout Marian devotee, he bequeathed the farm to the chapel of Handel, for which a mass was to be sung annually in March in the Handel chapel, for his repose and memory. In 1688, the Chapter of Alden Biesen approved this gift, which also exempted the farm from financial burdens or tithes.

Between the Virmuntse Hoeve and the church of Handel, it owned two more farms, originating from the Teutonic Order, with the telling names: The Black Cross and The German Master.

The farm was always leased by the chaplains of Handel, rebuilt in 1886 and sold in 1968. In 1972 it was converted into two residential houses.

Besides the farm part, there was also an inn and café for the benefit of the many pilgrims who came to Handel, and still today this former farm houses dozens of Valkenswaard processionists every year.