Overview of Eindhoven: History

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In 1232 the little village of Eindhoven was chartered by Henry I, Duke of Brabant. Eventually it established itself as a trade location enroute from Holland to Liège. Its industrial activities initially centred around tobacco and textiles.

The Netherlands and Spain alternated ownership of Eindhoven during the Dutch Revolt. Spanish troops demolished the city walls and took over in 1583 but in 1629 Eindhoven became part of the Netherlands again and it was there to stay.

Due to the presence of Phillips and other major industry, Eindhoven has developed as a major player in the global industrial design scene. It is considered to be the epicenter of dutch design with such institutions as the Design Academy, the Maarten Baas studio, and the Dutch Design Week that takes place every October. Eindhoven is one of two finalist for the tittle of World Design Capital 2012.

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