Niel, Belgium

Niel is a municipality located in the Belgian province of Antwerp. The municipality only comprises the town of Niel proper. In 2021, Niel had a total population of 10,493. The total area is 5.27 km2.

History
Niel used to belong to the Lordship of Mechelen. In 1462, it became part of the Duchy of Brabant. Niel became an independent parish in the 14th century. During most of its history, it was an agricultural community along the Rupel river. In the 19th century, Niel became an industrial town with brickworks, cement factories and shoe factories.

Sports
Niel is home to the Niel Jaarmarkt Cyclo-cross, a cyclo-cross race held in and around the town. The race forms part of the X²O Badkamers Trophy.

Notable people

 * Jan Decleir, actor, leading actor in the Academy Award winner Karakter was born in Niel.