Gorinchem (Dutch pronunciation: [ˈɣɔrkʏm] ⓘ or [ˈɣɔrkəm]), also spelled Gorkum, is a city and municipality in the western Netherlands, in the province of South Holland.

It is generally assumed that Gorinchem was founded c. 1000 AD by fishermen and farmers on the raised land near the mouth of the river Linge at the Merwede.

At the end of the 13th century earthen mounds reinforced with palisades were built around the settlement to protect it from domination by the neighboring counties of Holland and Gelre.

On 9 July 1572, the Watergeuzen (Dutch rebels against Spanish rule) conquered the city and captured 19 Catholic priests and monks.

Because they refused to renounce their faith, these priests and monks were brought to Brielle where they were hanged and were from then on known among Catholics as the Martyrs of Gorkum.

[5] Their martyrdom is commemorated annually in Gorinchem and has become an integral part of the city’s religious and cultural identity.

[6] As victims of religious persecution during the Eighty Years' War, their story symbolizes the broader conflict between Catholicism and Protestantism in the region.

The martyrs hold a notable place in Dutch religious history, and their legacy continues to resonate with Catholics around the world.

In 2023 a new municipal executive was agreed, consisting of the City Interest, VVD, CU-SGP, Gorcum Active and SP.