World Automobile Day

On 29 January 1886, Carl Friedrich Benz was awarded a patent for the revolutionary Benz Patent-Motorwagen Number 1 – the very first car with an internal combustion engine!

In 1888, his wife, Bertha, made a legendary journey of 104 kilometres in this car – the first long-distance journey ever. Along the way, she proved her ingenuity by repairing the car herself using a hat pin and a nylon stocking. Thanks to her courage and perseverance, the Benz became famous worldwide.

This rich history lives on in the Louwman Museum, where you can admire not only the Benz Patent Motor Car but also other special vehicles. Discover the beginning of mobility as we know it today!