Former parsonage garden

On the site of Jan Gielenplein stood the old vicarage of Oudenbosch until about 1965. This presbytery was built in the early 17th century. In 1963, there were redevelopment plans for the centre. This included building a new presbytery on the east side of the basilica. On the site of the old presbytery came a town hall. This was demolished in 1995 after which the space was converted into a square.

Behind the rectory was a beautiful, large garden laid out with footpaths, fruit trees and greenhouses. These greenhouses and part of the garden had to make way for Fidei et Arti (Faith and Art) hall in 1934, at the intercession of priest de Wit. He envisaged turning the rest of the garden into a park where musical groups could perform.

The Fidei et Arti hall still exists and is in full use. This building was designed by the well-known architect Duinstee from The Hague in the style of the Amsterdam School. Sleek brick facades and beautiful symmetry. This facade was replaced in 1978 with the entrance moved to the side. In 2023, the area was redeveloped. The former vicarage garden was a source of inspiration for this.