Looks can be deceiving, when it comes to Eindhoven's history. Modern as the city is today, it is in fact one of the oldest towns in the Netherlands. Henry I, Duke of Brabant, already chartered the then little village of "Endehoven" in 1232, as part of his extensive town planning process. Eventually the town established itself as a trade location en route from Holland to Liège. Its industrial activities initially centered around tobacco and textiles.

The city was destroyed and rebuilt several times in its written history. Despite late 14th century improvements to its fortifications, and the establishment of a castle within the city walls in the 15th century, Eindhoven was plundered and burned by the Guelders in 1486. No more than 6 houses remained. Rebuilding took almost 20 years and left the town in poverty, with the fortifications being neglected. This resulted in another plundering in 1543. That same year a fire ruined most of the city. During the Dutch Revolt the city repeatedly alternated ownership between the Dutch and Spanish, was burned down again, besieged for 3 months and finally captured by Spanish troops in 1583. When the French armies took over the already weakened city some years later, large parts of it were destroyed yet again. In 1629 Eindhoven finally became part of the Netherlands, but its tumultuous history left it a damaged and minor city.

This would change with the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. Due to the presence of Philips, DAF trucks and some other major industry, Eindhoven has developed as a major player in the global technical and industrial design scene. It is considered to be the epicenter of Dutch design with such institutions as the Design Academy and the Dutch Design Week that takes place every October.

Eindhoven’s history is one of transformation, evolving from a small medieval town to a major industrial and technological hub. Founded in 1232, Eindhoven began as a modest village surrounded by farmland. It was granted city rights in the 13th century, but frequent fires and conflicts slowed its early development. By the 19th century, however, Eindhoven’s fortunes began to shift as industrialization took root.

The biggest change came in 1891 with the founding of Philips, the electronics company that would transform Eindhoven into a bustling center of industry and innovation. Philips’ growth drew workers, and with them came rapid urban expansion. By the 20th century, Eindhoven had earned its nickname, the "City of Light," due to Philips’ advancements in lighting. The city also became a hub for manufacturing and automotive industries, which was further strengthened by the founding of DAF Trucks.

Despite heavy bombings during World War II, Eindhoven rebuilt itself with a focus on modernization. The post-war period saw a boom in urban design and public infrastructure, shaping Eindhoven into a forward-looking city. Today, it balances its industrial past with a reputation as a creative and technological hotspot, hosting the annual Dutch Design Week and leading the way in high-tech development.