1381 NETHERLANDS (Netherlands / North Brabant) - Eindhoven in 21th century

Although the written history of Eindhoven, the largest city of North Brabant, started in 1232, many people only know it for the events and achievements from the 20th century. For example, those passionate about history know it due to the Operation Market Garden in the WWII, the football fans because of the club PSV Eindhoven, and businessmen due to the giant Philips. The postcard illustrates very well the image of the city in the 21st century, with several modern buildings.

The Blob (Binary Large Object) is located on 18 September Square, in the old city centre of Eindhoven. Designed by the Italian architect Massimiliano Fuksas, this organically shaped glass and steel structure, with 25m height, serves as the entrance to The Admirant shopping mall. The futuristic structure and spacious interior are an eye-catching addition to say the least, turning The Blob into a beacon in the city. It has rapidly become a popular meeting spot for the locals. The structure is 25 metres high, covered in glass and steel. It stands shoulder to shoulder with the Philips Light Tower (in background of the picture), linking it to the Admirant.

Philips Stadion is a football stadium, the home of PSV Eindhoven, one of the country's "big three" clubs. With a capacity of 35,000, it is the third-largest stadium in the country. Built as a sports field for Philips employees in 1910, has gone through several extensions. Two extensive renovations in the 1970s and 1990s first created a covered stadium, and then a two-tiered ground with extensive commercial spaces. The completion of the four corners in 2002 led to its current capacity. It was the location for three UEFA Euro 2000 group stage matches, as well as the 2006 UEFA Cup Final.

Vesteda Tower, designed by Jo Coenen & Co Architekten, was finished in 2006. At 90m tall and 28 floors it is the fourth highest building in Eindhoven. It was inspired by the Flatiron Building in Manhattan, New York City City. 23 of its floors above ground are occupied by two luxury apartments per floor, the top floor being home to a penthouse. The third floor is home to a health club and a guest house and the bottom floors are the main entrance and Vesteda gallery.

About the stamps
The stamp is part of the series Dutch Icons, about which I wrote here..

References
BLOB: Binary Large Object - holland.com

Sender: Luis M. Ceballos (direct swap)
Sent from Eindhoven (North Brabant / Netherlands), on 06.02.2014