St. Lambert's Church - Etten-Leur

The Saint Lambertus Church is an imposing neo-Gothic cruciform basilica dating from 1877, designed by the famous architect P.J. Van Genk, who was also responsible for the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. The church is characterised by its rich decorations, high pointed arches and impressive stained glass windows. This beautiful building not only plays an important role in local history, but also has a special connection with the world-famous painter Vincent van Gogh.

Vincent van Gogh immortalised the Lambertus Church several times in his early work around 1881. The church is clearly recognisable in some of his letter sketches and drawings. For example, the building appears in the letter sketches JH 37 and JH 58, as well as in the drawing JH 36. These works provide a unique insight into Van Gogh's development as an artist and his connection with the Brabant landscape.

Van Gogh's work gave the Sint-Lambertuskerk additional significance as a source of inspiration for the artist. In addition to its status as a national monument, the church is therefore recognised as an official Van Gogh monument.