Visiting the Catharinakerk, Eindhoven: twin towered, neo-Gothic structure by P J H Cuypers, dating from 1867

This fine, 19th century church building, the Catharinakerk , is situated in Eindhoven, in North Brabant (Dutch: Noord-Brabant ) province, The Netherlands.

Some history and features

Its architect was P J H Cuypers (1827-1921)(1). A devout Roman Catholic, Architect Cuypers executed the building in neo-Gothic style, using Medieval French Gothic as a model. He was particularly influenced by the aesthetic theories of the writer Joseph Alberdingk Thijm (1820-1889). Work on the building commenced in 1861; it was completed in 1867. This building was one of Architect Cuypers's earlier works; he subsequently became nationally and internationally prominent because of some of his later creations.

The building possess many distinctive characteristics, which serve to make it memorable. Among the most prominent of its features are its twin towers, which rise to a remarkable 73 metres. The building has a carillon donated by individuals from the locally-based Philips company. Another really impressive feature of the Catharinakerk is its organ which possesses no less than 5723 pipes. As might be expected in a building of its style, pointed arches are significant, recurring features of its design. A circular stained glass window is another prominent feature at the building's front elevation.

During World War Two, the building suffered damage. In the post war period, the structure underwent a program of restoration led by architect Kees de Bever (1897-1965).

The Catharinakerk is situated at the intersection of Catharinaplein and Stratumseind , in the city.

June 25, 2012

Note

(1) Other works by Architect Cuypers include the Amsterdam Central Railroad Station (Dutch: Centraal Station ) and the Rijksmuseum , Amsterdam.

Also worth seeing

In Eindhoven itself, visitor attractions include the DAF museum, which, through many exhibits and various presentations, gives a interesting history of this Dutch company.

At Oirschot (distance: 18 kilometres) significant wildlife has its habitat on Oirschot Heath (Dutch: Oirschotse Heide ).

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How to get there: Airlines flying to Amsterdam Airport from New York include Delta Airlines and KLM. For North American travellers making the London, England area their base, Eindhoven Airport is served by Ryanair from London Stansted Airport, by VLM from London City Airport, and by Aer Lingus from London Gatwick Airport. The Dutch railroad company NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen) maintains rail services from Amsterdam to Eindhoven . There is car rental availability at Amsterdam and Eindhoven airports. You are advised to check with the airline or your travel agent for up to date information.

MJFenn is an independent travel writer based in Ontario, Canada.