The city of ‘s-Hertogenbosch (also known as Hertogenbosch or Den Bosch) is the capital of the province of North Brabant in the Netherlands. With a history that stretches back for nearly a century, it has served as the center of numerous battles and for important cultural developments, many of which have led to the creation of notable monuments across the city. However, there are many other obscure landmarks in Hertogenbosch that have impacted the history and culture of the region in far more subtle ways.
The Catholic Cathedral Church of St. John of Hertogenbosch is recognized as one of the most incredible examples of Gothic architecture in the Netherlands. A bronze statue by Mari Andriessen completed in 1963 resides outside the cathedral to compliments it in numerous manners. The Saint John the Evangelist with Eagle Statue provides visitors with context around the past and present of the city and structure.
Jeroen Boschplein is defined by a statue of the artist who was born in the town in the 15th century. His work inspired a sculpture series that can be seen across Hertogenbosch but his statue resides near the Jheronimus Bosch Art Center, allowing visitors to appreciate the life and work of Hertogenbosch’s most famous artist.
The Jewish Scholieren Monument in Hertogenbosch is a statue of three children, huddled together with their schoolbags. It was erected in 1995 in memory of the students and teachers of the Jewish primary school and the Jewish Lyceum who were deported by the occupying forces during the Second World War and killed in concentration camps.
The Carnival Monument was created in 1952 by Jo Uiterwaal. Representing the Carnival figure that defines the Hertogenbosch Carnival, the piece was originally accompanied by a statue of Mercury with Pegasus. The Carnival celebration sees everyone in the city dressing in red, white and yellow as part of a three-day celebration. This male figure holds a mask in his left hand and has the city coat of arms of Hertogenbosch at his feet.
These are just a few of the obscure and outstanding monuments located all across Hertogenbosch. They allow both residents and visitors to experience the history and culture of the region in ways that impact and reflect it in powerful ways.
