Right until the beginning of the 20th century, Eindhoven was no more than a village. Less than a century later its number of inhabitants had boomed to over 200,000. The main reason for this tremendous increase in size was the the establishment of electronics multinational Philips, which was founded as a light bulb manufacturing company in 1891 and was headquartered in Eindhoven until 1997. As Philips grew, the city of Eindhoven grew with it to feed the company's constantly growing need for workers. Philips' strong presence in the city gained it the title of "Lichtstad" (City of Light) and is still prominent today, as many of its former buildings are considered valuable industrial heritage and have been renovated. Frits Philips (1905-2005), who lead the company for decades, was the city's main beneficiary and was extremely popular among the people of Eindhoven. When walking the streets of Eindhoven today, you'll find his and other names associated with Philips everywhere. Parks, theaters, sports facilities and many streets are named in their honor.
Although Eindhoven is an old city, with town and market rights already awarded in 1232, little of this long history is visible when exploring its center today. Large parts of the city were destroyed during air raids in World War II and post-war reconstruction was focused on ambitious, modernist plans with little respect for the historic heritage that was left. Nevertheless, there are 140 national heritage sites (Rijksmonumenten) in and directly around the city, including many 19th and early 20th century buildings and a handful of older ones.
Eindhoven is a lively city in the Netherlands, celebrated as a hub of innovation, design, and technology. Often called the "City of Light" due to its roots with the Philips company, Eindhoven grew from a modest industrial town into a cutting-edge, creative metropolis. It's a place where history meets modernity, and its energy is shaped by the forward-thinking spirit of its residents.
Key neighborhoods like Strijp-S, once a Philips industrial zone, have transformed into creative spaces filled with art studios, trendy cafes, and unique shops, embodying Eindhoven's mix of past and future. As the home of the annual Dutch Design Week, the largest design event in Northern Europe, the city attracts visionaries and artists worldwide. You’ll also find impressive museums, such as the Van Abbemuseum, with its contemporary art collections, and the DAF Museum, which highlights the city’s role in automotive innovation.
Eindhoven’s welcoming vibe, rich culture, and passion for creativity make it a fascinating destination for anyone eager to explore the Netherlands' modern side. Whether you're into high-tech innovation, art, or just enjoying the mix of old factories and new ideas, Eindhoven offers a uniquely inspiring experience.
