North Brabant

Kasteel Heeswijk, 2014

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Dragon Edna

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Zundert welkom in Brabant

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North Brabant (Dutch: Noord-Brabant), often shortened to Brabant, is a province in the southern part of the Netherlands. It borders the provinces of South Holland and Gelderland to the north, Limburg to the east, and Zeeland to the west. To the south, it shares an international border with Belgium. The capital city of North Brabant is ’s-Hertogenbosch, also known as Den Bosch. Other major cities include Eindhoven, Tilburg, and Breda.

History

The history of North Brabant is marked by its strategic location between the Kingdom of the Netherlands and Belgium, making it a contested region throughout much of its history. Originally part of the Duchy of Brabant, a significant territory within the Holy Roman Empire, it was later divided into North and South Brabant, with the southern part becoming part of Belgium after the Belgian Revolution in 1830.

Geography

North Brabant is characterized by its varied landscapes, including forests, heathlands, and river valleys. The Biesbosch National Park, one of the largest national parks in the Netherlands and a significant wetland area, is located in the province. The region also features the Loonse en Drunense Duinen, a large area of shifting sands.

Economy

The economy of North Brabant is one of the most dynamic in the Netherlands, with a strong focus on technology and innovation. Eindhoven, often referred to as the "Silicon Valley of the Netherlands," is home to the High Tech Campus Eindhoven and multinational companies like Philips and ASML. The province also has a significant agricultural sector, particularly in pig farming and dairy production.

Culture

North Brabant is known for its rich cultural heritage, including its contribution to Dutch art and architecture. It is the birthplace of famous painter Vincent van Gogh, whose works are celebrated in the Van Gogh Village in Nuenen. The province is also famous for its culinary specialties, such as the Bossche bol, and its vibrant carnival celebrations, which are among the most elaborate in the Netherlands.

Education

The province hosts several institutions of higher education, including the Eindhoven University of Technology and Tilburg University, which contribute to its reputation as a center for academic research and innovation.

Transport

North Brabant is well-connected by a network of highways and railways, facilitating easy access to major Dutch cities and European destinations. Eindhoven Airport serves as a regional hub for both domestic and international flights.

Government

The provincial government of North Brabant is responsible for various regional matters, including spatial planning, environmental management, and cultural affairs. The Provincial States (Provinciale Staten) is the legislative body, elected by the residents of North Brabant.

See Also

• List of municipalities in North Brabant
• Brabantian dialect
• Southern Netherlands