Eindhoven has unveiled five new manhole covers that tell the story of the city’s post-war reconstruction. These covers feature creative designs of several buildings from the post-war era. Alderpersons Rik Thijs and Remco van Dooren installed the first cover on Friday afternoon.
The project is an initiative by the Post-War Heritage Foundation (Stichting Wederopbouw Erfgoed) and Atelier van Assendonk. The designers aim to highlight how post-war architecture has shaped the city’s unique character.
During the unveiling, the new covers were quickly nicknamed “golden medals.” A representative from the foundation explained that the covers are intended as works of art rather than exact photographs of the buildings. Each cover includes a QR code that visitors can scan to learn the full history of the structures represented.
Some visitors noted that the abstract designs require a bit of imagination to interpret. Alderperson Rik Thijs attempted to identify some of the landmarks during the ceremony. He pointed out the Light Tower and the Philips Stadium, but joked that he did not want to reveal every detail to the public.
Designer Aart van Assendonk provided further clarity on the artwork. He pointed out the structural legs of the Evoluon and the distinctive windows of the De Bijenkorf department store. He expressed his pride in the project, noting that a significant amount of time went into the design process.
While the first cover is now in place, the remaining four will be installed once the repaving of Demer Street is complete.
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