Breda history is filled with different rulers and systems. Each period has contributed to what Breda is today.

Breda: The Walled City

The city of Breda obtained its rights in 1252. The city was fortified during this time, and the city started to build the Roman-style gates and brick walls. Today you will see evidence of the old walls, most of which are still intact. By the 14th century, the entire city was walled. It was also during this time that singels or mounts were constructed around the walled city. The fortification of the city was made under the orders of Count Henry of Nassau.

The House of Orange–Nassau

It was during the rule of the House of Orange–Nassau when the city flourished. It was also under this rule that some of the famous landmarks in the city were constructed, including the Breda Castle. The castle was built for the first prince of Netherlands. Over the years, additional structures were made, including the channel and 4 towers made by the Baron of Breda. The castle was then made bigger by Johan IV van Nassau-Dietz who was the son of Baron Breda’s daughter. The Breda Castle still exists and is a symbol of the relationship between the city and the House of Orange-Nassau. During the Orange-Nassau rule, several other famous landmarks were built including the Grote Kerk and the impressive Church of Our Lady.

Spanish Rule

The Compromise of Breda was the beginning of Dutch revolts against Spanish rule in 1566. However, the attempt was futile, and the city remained under Spanish rule until the recapture of Prince Maurice of Nassau in 1590. After a few years of rule under Prince Maurice, the city of Breda was again threatened by the Spanish rule. Between 1624 and 1625, the Spaniards gained dominion over Breda. Over the next few years, the city became witness to several more wars until finally it was recaptured by Prince Frederick Henry of Orange in 1637.

Peace in Breda

In 1667, the city of Breda experienced its first peaceful existence when the Treaty of Breda was signed. The treaty was signed by France, Denmark, United Provinces which is now Netherlands and England. The treaty ended the Second Anglo-Dutch War. After the treaty was signed, the city began to flourish as a trading region. 

Over the years, Breda became host to several more peace talks and treaties, including the Congress of Breda and the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle.