Eindhoven Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Eindhoven

Eindhoven is the largest city in the province of North Brabant in the Netherlands. It was founded in the 13th century but didn't see large growth until DAF Trucks and Philips Electronics were established in the city during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Eindhoven was officially given status as a municipality in 1232. It was already a small town with less than 200 houses inside the city walls. The municipal status gave it the right to hold a weekly market in Market Square.

Buildings from the early days of Eindhoven were largely destroyed in the fire of 1554. Due to repeat disputes over land, many of the rebuilt structures were damaged throughout the years. Spain and France both vied for control over the area even after it became part of the Netherlands in 1629.

Philips Electronics played a prominent role in the advancement of Eindhoven. Founded in 1891 to manufacture light bulbs, Philips became a primary employer in the city. As the company expanded its presence around the globe, Eindhoven became firmly established as an industrial center. DAF Trucks was another industrial powerhouse that brought jobs and wealth to the community. Tourists can experience the history of these two companies by visiting the Philips Museum and the DAF Museum.

World War II caused a great deal of damage to Eindhoven. The Philips factory, located in downtown Eindhoven, was targeted by air raids. This left much of the city in ruins. The reconstruction that came after the war replaced traditional structures with modern ones.

Some historical buildings manage to survive. A prime example is Saint Catherine's Church, a Neo-Gothic church built in 1867. Visitors can also see important buildings and monuments along Stratumseind and Market Square.

A stone's throw from Eindhoven is the small village of Nuenen, where the world-famous impression painter, Vincent Van Gogh, spent a few years of his life there. The artist loved the surroundings and the people, and Nuenen became the inspiration behind many of Van Gogh's works. He even found his love there. Today, Van Gogh's former studio and residence draw admirers to the artist in large numbers.

Take this self-guided walking tour to learn more about the beautiful city of Eindhoven.