Breda

Breda, a fortified town of Holland, in the province of N. Brabant, is situated at the junction of the Merk and the Aa. Its defences may be strengthened by flooding the surrounding country. It is a Catholic bishop's see and has a Gothic cathedral. Its castle, built in 1350, was for a time the residence of the exiled Charles II. of England, and from Breda he issued his declaration, promising liberty of conscience and a general pardon on his restoration. Breda is rich in historical associations. It has manufactures of linens, woollens, carpets, hats, leather, etc.