Waalwijk

Waalwijk is a town located in the southern province of North Brabant, in the Netherlands. It is situated approximately 7 kilometers southeast of the city of Tilburg. As of 2022, the town has a population of approximately 33,000 inhabitants.

Waalwijk is known for its historic center, which features several recognizable landmarks including the Saint Peter's Church, a 13th-century Romanesque church, and the 17th-century town hall. The town's economy has historically been focused on the textile industry, with several large manufacturers operating in the area.

Today, Waalwijk is a hub for the automotive industry, with companies such as Eurocor and Pierre Cardin owning manufacturing facilities in the area. In addition to its industrial sector, the town also attracts visitors for its annual motor sports event, the waalseilanden rally, and its Christmas market.

Waalwijk is well-connected to the surrounding area via the Netherlands' national highway network and is serviced by regular bus and train services to nearby cities and towns. The town has expanded in recent years, with new residential areas and commercial developments sprouting up on the outskirts of the historic center.

Despite its rapid growth and industrialization, Waalwijk's historic center remains intact and is considered a valuable and well-maintained characteristic of the town. Efforts to preserve the town's architectural and cultural heritage continue to be undertaken by local government agencies and preservation societies.