Noordbrabants Museum Den Bosch - Collection Art, Culture & History

Discover the Heart of Brabant: Het Noordbrabants Museum in Den Bosch

Step into the cultural soul of North Brabant at Het Noordbrabants Museum, beautifully situated on the Verwersstraat in the historic heart of 's-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch). As a premier historical and art museum in the region, it stands as a central pillar of the cultural landscape, serving as a key Brabants museum and a vibrant custodian of the area's rich art, culture, and geschiedenis (history). Its prime location within a city steeped in history creates an immediate connection for visitors exploring historische musea in Den Bosch or eager to discover the heritage of North Brabant. Housing a vast collection of over 30,000 objects, the Noordbrabants Museum offers a comprehensive exploration and a unique journey through time, connecting the world of Brabant natives like Hieronymus Bosch, Vincent van Gogh, and Jan Sluijters with significant Old Masters, contemporary talents, and international art, all within a stunning architectural complex. Deeply intertwined with the fabric of Den Bosch, the museum embodies core values of Brabant hospitality, versatility in its offerings, commitment to quality, and a dedication to inspiring its visitors.

A Rich History: From Society Roots to Modern Museum Quarter

The museum's story, a significant part of the geschiedenis of 's-Hertogenbosch museum landscape, began in 1836 with the founding of the Provinciaal Genootschap van Kunsten en Wetenschappen in Noord-Brabant (Provincial Society for Arts and Sciences). Key figures like Governor Baron Andreas van den Bogaerde van Terbrugge and C.R. Hermans aimed to advance arts and sciences within the province. Initially focusing on a library with manuscripts and curiosities, the collections were housed in various locations before finding a more permanent home.

A pivotal moment arrived in 1919 with C.P.D. Pape's generous bequest, enabling the establishment of a dedicated museum. Post-WWI, the society acquired the Groot Tuighuis (Big Arsenal), a building with its own rich geschiedenis, having served as a church, stables, arsenal, and barracks. Architect Oscar Leeuw transformed it, and in 1925, the 'Centraal Noord Brabantsch Museum' opened. Early exhibits focused on provincial history and art, setting the stage for future growth and deepening its role among the historical museums of Den Bosch.

Post-WWII, a 1968 decision separated the museum from the Provincial Society. The landmark Hieronymus Bosch exhibition in 1967 had already underscored the need for a focused art museum in Den Bosch. In 1987, a significant relocation brought the museum to its current prestigious home: the stately Gouvernement building (Stadspaleis) on Verwersstraat, the former 18th-century residence (1768) of the King's Commissioner. It was then that the museum adopted its current name, Het Noordbrabants Museum. This building itself is part of the city's rich geschiedenis, with elements dating back to a 17th-century Jesuit monastery chapel (now the State Chamber).

Architect Wim Quist initially adapted the Stadspaleis, adding museum wings around 1988. A major expansion by Bierman Henket architecten (completed 2013) created the integrated Museumkwartier (Museum Quarter), linking Het Noordbrabants Museum with the Design Museum Den Bosch and provincial archives via a central passageway. This solidified the complex, located centrally in 's-Hertogenbosch, as a major cultural hub. Under directors like Charles de Mooij, the museum hosted major exhibitions like "Hieronymus Bosch - Visions of Genius," drawing significant crowds (510,000 in 2016). Future plans include expansion by 2030 to accommodate a large art donation from the JK Art Foundation, signaling continued growth for this important Brabant museum in Den Bosch.

Exploring the Collections: Depth and Diversity Rooted in Brabant's Geschiedenis

With over 30,000 objects spanning art and cultural history, the collection of Het Noordbrabants Museum focuses intently on North Brabant and the Southern Netherlands. It masterfully tells "Het verhaal van Brabant" (The Story of Brabant), tracing the region's geschiedenis from prehistory to the present, often through dedicated permanent displays. While only a fraction is displayed at once, the collection underpins temporary exhibitions (like the acclaimed "Brueghel: The Family Reunion") and loans, making art accessible and thought-provoking. This focus makes it a key destination for those interested in the history of 's-Hertogenbosch and Brabant.

• Modern & Contemporary Masters: The Noordbrabants Museum celebrates key Brabant modernists like Jan Sluijters alongside international works (e.g., from the JK Art Foundation loan). It actively collects contemporary art from names like René Daniëls, Marc Mulders, Mark Manders, and Thomas Trum, increasingly featuring international artists like Ali Banisadr. The upcoming JK Art Foundation gift will further strengthen this area, reflecting the museum's dynamic approach.
• Old Masters: Deeply rooted in the Southern Netherlands' geschiedenis, this collection highlights the 16th and 17th centuries, particularly followers of Hieronymus Bosch (whose legacy is strongly tied to Den Bosch), the Brueghel family (Pieter the Elder born in Brabant), and the circle of Peter Paul Rubens. Although owning no original Bosch paintings, the museum showcases related works and artists like David Teniers the Younger, Van Dyck, and Theodoor van Thulden. The exquisite Brabantine silverwork collection and paintings like The Cloth Market offer glimpses into the region's rich past.
• Van Gogh In Brabant: This unique presentation focuses on Vincent van Gogh's formative years (1883-1885) in his native Brabant. Het Noordbrabants Museum is the only museum in the Southern Netherlands housing original works by Van Gogh, exploring how the Brabant landscape and peasant life shaped his early art. Visitors can see around 13 works (owned or loaned), including studies related to "The Potato Eaters" and paintings of local scenes like the Watermills at Kollen and Gennep. The "Van Gogh in Brabant" display offers a powerful connection between the artist and his roots in the region.

Getting to Het Noordbrabants Museum in Den Bosch

Centrally located at Verwersstraat 41 in the historical heart of 's-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch), the museum is easily accessible:

• By Public Transport:
  • Train: A 10-15 minute walk from 's-Hertogenbosch Centraal Station.
  • Bus: City buses (stadsbussen) stop near the museum on Verwersstraat or other central locations. Use providers like Arriva or the 9292.nl planner.
• By Car:
  • Follow signs for 's-Hertogenbosch Centrum.
  • Paid parking is available in nearby garages (St-Jan, Wolvenhoek, St. Josephstraat). Check their websites. Street parking is very limited.
• By Bicycle/Foot:
  • The museum's location in the medieval city center makes it ideal for walking.
  • Bicycle parking (fietsenstalling) is available nearby.

Planning Your Visit: Tips for a Great Experience at this Den Bosch Museum

• Check Ahead: Always consult the official Het Noordbrabants Museum website (hetnoordbrabantsmuseum.nl) for the latest on temporary exhibitions, events, current opening hours, and ticket prices. Online booking is recommended.
• Time Allocation: Allow 2-3 hours for a visit, more for temporary exhibitions or the café.
• Quieter Visits: Weekdays, especially mornings, are typically less crowded.
• Families & Groups: Family-friendly (free entry for children); check for activities. Group visits require advance booking.
• Photography: Personal photography (no flash/tripods) is usually allowed in permanent areas; check temporary exhibition rules.

Accessibility Features

Het Noordbrabants Museum aims to be accessible:

• Mobility: Ramps, lifts, accessible toilets. Limited wheelchairs available (book ahead). Mobility scooters permitted.
• Companions: Free entry for necessary companions (select free ticket option online).
• Other Needs: Check website for audio guide (web app), assistance dog policy (guide dogs/SOHO dogs welcome), and multilingual staff availability.

Museum Facilities

• Museum Brasserie: Coffee, lunch, snacks (Tue-Sun, 11:00-17:00). Accessible without museum ticket. Access to redesigned Museum Garden with outdoor seating.
• Museum Shop: Books (art, history, Van Gogh, Brabant), reproductions, gifts. Near Design Museum entrance (Tue-Sun, 11:00-17:00). Accessible without museum ticket.
• Cloakroom & Lockers: Mandatory for coats, large bags, umbrellas. Baby carriers worn on front allowed.
• Restrooms: Available for visitors.
• Payment: Cashless operations in museum, shop, brasserie. PIN (debit card) or contactless only.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Het Noordbrabants Museum

• What is the main focus of Het Noordbrabants Museum?
  • This Brabants museum distinguishes itself with a dedicated focus on the art, culture, and geschiedenis (history) of North Brabant and the Southern Netherlands, from prehistory to the present. Its core identity is rooted in regional heritage, celebrating artists like Bosch, Van Gogh, and Brueghel, and showcasing Brabant craftsmanship, making it a key historische museum in Den Bosch.
• Do I need to book tickets online in advance?
  • Highly recommended via the official website to guarantee entry and potentially get a discount. Time slots are not currently required.
• Can I buy tickets at the museum entrance?
  • Yes, subject to availability. Online booking is preferred.
• Do I need to print my online ticket?
  • No, scan from your smartphone/tablet.
• Is there a combination ticket for the Design Museum Den Bosch?
  • Usually, yes, a discounted combi-ticket is available for same-day visits (check online ticket shop under "show more tickets"). May be unavailable during changeovers.
• Can I buy or use my Museumkaart?
  • Yes, the Museumkaart is valid. You can buy one at the desk. Bring your physical card.
• What are the quietest times to visit?
  • Weekdays, particularly mornings.
• Can I take photos inside the museum?
  • Yes, for personal use, but no flash, tripods, or selfie sticks. Tag the museum on social media!
• Is food and drink allowed in the galleries?
  • No. Use the MuseumBrasserie.
• Is there an audio guide available?
  • Yes, a free web app audio tour (hnbm.uwmuseumgids.nl). Bring your own earphones.
• Are guided tours offered?
  • Yes, bookable options available (check website). Free introductory tours often on Sunday afternoons (check schedule).
• Are there lockers or a cloakroom?
  • Yes, mandatory for coats, large bags, etc.
• What payment methods are accepted?
  • Cashless only: PIN (debit card) or contactless. National Kunst & Cultuur Cadeaukaart may be accepted at the desk.
• Is the museum accessible for visitors with limited mobility?
  • Yes, with lifts, ramps, accessible toilets, borrowable wheelchairs (book ahead), and permitted mobility scooters. Free entry for necessary companions.
• Are guide dogs permitted?
  • Yes, registered guide dogs and SOHO assistance dogs.
• Where can I see the works by Van Gogh?
  • In the permanent "Van Gogh in Brabant" presentation, featuring original works from his time in North Brabant. This is unique to Het Noordbrabants Museum in the Southern Netherlands.
• Are there works by Hieronymus Bosch on display?
  • The museum, located in Bosch's hometown Den Bosch, frequently features exhibitions related to him but does not own original paintings by Bosch himself. You can often see works by his followers or related pieces exploring the geschiedenis of art in the region. Check the current display info online.