The duchy originally extended from the bank of the River Meuse to just beyond Brussels. During the course of history, however, it was split up again, when Noord-Brabant became Dutch territory and the remainder Belgian.
Farmers tilling the poor sandy soil or the rich clay, citizens in the flourishing cities, the nobility in castles, the clergy and monastic orders: Many have come (and gone) throughout the ages, both in groups and individually. Escaping poverty and war, searching for prosperity, security and freedom of religion, in the service of the powers that be, pursuing adventure or love.
Jews, gypsies, the French and Germans, people from the Indonesian archipelago, Hungarians, people from the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, from Surinam and the Antilles, from the European Community – they have literally come from all over. And all have brought their particular talents and their own will to make something for themselves. This is how the Brabant population has come to be what it is now: Colourful, social and enterprising in all aspects and still in full flux.
Provincial Government building
Noord-Brabant’s Provincial Government building was the final work completed by the Dutch architect H.A. Maaskant. It is a structure that features extensive use of concrete, glass and steel.
These eye-catching premises situated alongside the A2 motorway have become an integral part of the urban skyline of 's-Hertogenbosch. It nevertheless took quite some time and effort to actually get the design approved and built.
However, Mr Maaskant did live long enough to witness the official opening of the premises by Her Majesty Queen Juliana in 1971. Sadly, he passed away just six years later.