Asten

Asten is a town and municipality in the Netherlands, located in the province of North Brabant in the southern part of the country. The municipality is part of the Peel region and comprises several settlements, with Asten as its administrative center.

Geography and landscape: The area is largely rural, with farmland, small waterways, and hedgerows. The Brabant countryside around Asten shows features common to the region, including traditional windmills and compact village cores.

History: The settlement dates back to the Middle Ages, and the modern municipality developed through late-20th-century municipal reorganizations that merged smaller communities for local governance.

Economy and transport: Agriculture and horticulture have long been important, complemented by small businesses and services. Many residents commute to nearby cities such as Eindhoven or Helmond for work. The area is served by regional roads and local bus services.

Culture and landmarks: The town has churches, community centers, and cultural associations. Local events and markets reflect Brabant's regional traditions.

Government: The municipality is governed by a municipal council and a mayor, with four-year election cycles.