UNESCO in the Netherlands

UNESCO in the Netherlands

Curious as to which sites in the Netherlands are on the UNESCO World Heritage list? Discover them here and learn more about how the Netherlands came to be!

The Netherlands is home to a total of 9 UNESCO World Heritage sites including one on Curaçao in the Dutch Antilles. These heritage sites tell the story of the Netherlands and highlight what makes this country so unique on the world map. The Netherlands has an undeniably rich history and it is our pleasure to highlight a few of these events for you. Read more about all the Dutch sites on the UNESCO World Heritage list!
Van Nelle Factory – 2014
The Van Nelle Factory is the most recent addition to UNESCO's Heritage List. This tea, coffee and tobacco factory was designed in the 1920s and is recognised for its modernistic character. The building is a true representation of 20th century architecture. 
The Canal Ring of Amsterdam – 2010
Amsterdam's canal network is perhaps one of the most popular tourist attractions in the capital. For this reason alone it deserves a place on the heritage list! Amsterdam started working on the canal ring towards the end of the 16th century as part of a new ‘port’ to expand the area of the popular city. Iconic manor houses still decorate the canal routes and altogether form an association now hardwired to the city's image.
The Wadden Sea – 2009
What makes the Wadden Sea a noteworthy addition to the list is that it's the largest system of sand and mudflats in the world that dry up during low tide. Hence, the ultimate 'to do' is walking the flats when the water’s out!
Rietveld Schröderhuis in Utrecht – 2000
The Truus Schröder-Schräder family home was built in 1924 and designed by famous architect Gerrit Thomas Rietveld. Today it remains an icon within the Modern Movement in Dutch architecture.
Beemster Polder near Purmerend – 1999
With an exceptionally structured landscape, the Beemster Polder is a prime example of classical Renaissance planning. Reclamation was absolutely necessary as waters threatened to flood the cities in the area. A dyke with a total length of 43 kilometres and equipped with 43 windmills formed the ultimate solution to ensure the polder remained completely dry.
Ir. D.F. Woudagemaal near Lemmer – 1998
The Woudagemaal is the largest steam pumping station in the world, and as the name suggests, uses steam to pump water away. In its heyday it was a revolutionary means to help solve the country's water problems.
Windmills at Kinderdijk-Elshout – 1997
The 19 windmills of Kinderdijk-Elshout are a powerful representation of Dutch innovation and technological development in the field of water management. The impressive complex is where all elements are brought together: dykes, reservoirs, pumping stations, administrative buildings and the 19 surviving windmills.
The Defence Line of Amsterdam – 1996
The 45-strong network of armed forts were utilised in the 16th century to ward off any invaders. The centre of the Netherlands turned into a fortified area by temporarily submerging polders via a system of canals and sluices.
Schokland and Surroundings – 1995
The Schokland symbolises the age-old struggle between the Netherlands and the ever-encroaching waters. 1859 marked the year when residents had to be evacuated permanently from the area. There are however still many monuments that have remained almost completely intact.
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