The Martyrs of Gorkum were 19 Catholic priests from various religious orders who were captured during the Dutch Revolt amid the religious wars of the 16th century. In June 1572, a Calvinist rebel group, seized the town of Gorkum (now Gorinchem) and imprisoned the Catholic clergy 

From June 26 to July 6, the prisoners were held under harsh conditions at Gorkum and later transported to Brielle (Den Briel) aboard a ship.

In Brielle, Admiral Lumey interrogated them, pressing them to renounce their Catholic faith. All steadfastly refused.

Despite intervention from Prince William of Orange, whose letter instructed local authorities not to harm clergy, and protests from Gorkum magistrates, Lumey ordered the executions.

On the night of July 9, 1572, the 19 were hanged in Brielle. Their bodies were mutilated, then hastily buried, reportedly accompanied by miraculous signs—like a shrub of 19 white flowers that emerged at the site.

Canonized on June 29, 1867, by Pope Pius IX, the Martyrs of Gorkum have since inspired pilgrimages to Brielle. Most of their relics were transferred to St. Nicholas Church in Brussels, where a shrine was erected in their honor. These martyrs are remembered on July 9, their feast day, as enduring symbols of faith and courage.