Valkenswaard facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Valkenswaard
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Church in Valkenswaard
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.svg)
Location in North Brabant
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| Country | Netherlands | ||
| Province | North Brabant | ||
| Government | |||
| • Body | Municipal council | ||
| Area | |||
| • Total | 56.49 km2 (21.81 sq mi) | ||
| • Land | 55.01 km2 (21.24 sq mi) | ||
| • Water | 1.48 km2 (0.57 sq mi) | ||
| Elevation | 25 m (82 ft) | ||
| Population
(May 2014)
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| • Total | 30,336 | ||
| • Density | 551/km2 (1,430/sq mi) | ||
| Demonym(s) | Valkenswaarder / Valkenswaardenaar | ||
| Time zone | UTC+1 (CET) | ||
| • Summer (DST) | UTC+2 (CEST) | ||
| Postcode |
5550–5556
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| Area code | 040 | ||
Valkenswaard is a town and a municipality in the southern Netherlands. It is located in the North Brabant province. The municipality had a population of 30,336 people in 2014. It covers an area of 56.49 km2 (21.81 sq mi), with 1.48 km2 (0.57 sq mi) of that being water.
The name Valkenswaard comes from its past connection to falconry. Valk is the Dutch word for "falcon." This area was once a place where people caught wild falcons. Falcons would fly south through this region every year. From the 17th to the 19th centuries, falconers from Valkenswaard were famous. They worked for many royal families in Europe, where falconry was a popular sport. Today, the falcon-catching areas have been developed. Falcons are no longer caught there.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Valkenswaard became known for its large cigar factories. Two of the most famous factories were Willem II and Hofnar. These factories played a big part in the town's economy.
Contents
History of Valkenswaard
Valkenswaard has a rich history, especially linked to its name.
Falconry and the Town's Name
The name Valkenswaard means "falcon's ford" or "falcon's worth." It comes from the time when people caught falcons here. This practice was very important to the town's identity. Falconers from Valkenswaard were highly skilled. They traveled across Europe to work for nobles and kings.
Cigar Industry Development
Later, the town's economy changed. It became a center for making cigars. Large factories like Willem II and Hofnar opened. They provided many jobs for the local people. This industry helped Valkenswaard grow and become more prosperous.
World War II Cemetery
A Second World War cemetery is located near Valkenswaard. It was created in October 1944. This cemetery is the final resting place for 220 British soldiers. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission now takes care of it. It is a place to remember those who fought for freedom.
Culture and Language
The local language spoken in Valkenswaard is Kempenlands. This is a type of East Brabantian dialect. It is very similar to everyday Dutch.
Sports and Recreation
Valkenswaard is also home to a well-known sports venue.
Eurocircuit Valkenswaard
The Eurocircuit Valkenswaard is a famous motorsport racetrack. It has hosted major international events. These include the European Rallycross Championship. It also hosts the FIM Motocross World Championship. Many exciting races take place here.
Towns and Villages in Valkenswaard
The municipality of Valkenswaard includes several population centers.
- Borkel en Schaft
- Dommelen
- Valkenswaard
Topography of the Area
This map shows the different parts of the Valkenswaard municipality. It helps you see where the towns and villages are located.
Partner Cities Around the World
Valkenswaard has special connections with other cities. These are called partner municipalities. They work together on cultural and other projects.
Famous People from Valkenswaard
Many notable people were born in Valkenswaard.
- Henk van den Breemen (1941–2024) – A Dutch military officer.
- Pieter van Geel (born 1951) – A Dutch politician who is now retired.
- Linda Williams (born 1955) – A Dutch singer who sang in the 1981 Eurovision Song Contest.
- Ine Gevers (born 1960) – A Dutch art curator, writer, and activist.
- Jeroen Mettes (1978–2006) – A Dutch poet, essayist, and blogger.
- Dominique van Hulst (born 1981) – A singer known by her stage name Do.
Sports Stars from Valkenswaard
Valkenswaard has also produced several talented athletes.
- Jan Tops (born 1961) – An equestrian who won a gold medal at the 1992 Summer Olympics.
- Jens van Son (born 1987) – A Dutch professional footballer with over 250 club games.
- Lidewij Welten (born 1990) – A Dutch field hockey player.
- Daniëlle van de Donk (born 1991) – A Dutch professional footballer.
Gallery
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Notary office, Valkenswaard
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Pintenwipper statue, Martinusplein Dommelen
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Winnaar 2008 - Buurtschap Hazestraat - Flying pirates on music
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Column of Unity by Erich Reischke, Valkenswaard
See also
In Spanish: Valkenswaard para niños
