Discover the History and Beauty of World Heritage Site Kinderdijk
Have you ever wondered what life was like before modernization? Or perhaps how people used to power their homes before electricity? A visit to Kinderdijk may help unlock some of these mysteries for you.
A Brief Introduction to Kinderdijk
Kinderdijk is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the South Holland province of the Netherlands. It is one of the most well-known attractions in the country and attracts over 600,000 visitors yearly. Kinderdijk is a network of 19 ancient windmills that were built around 1740 to help drain a polder, specifically one of 1761 hectares that lay between the Lek and Noord rivers.
The History of Kinderdijk
The windmills of Kinderdijk have withstood the test of time and have become a symbol of the Netherlands’ struggle with water management. They were used for centuries to pump water out of the polders and into the rivers to prevent flooding and land submersion. Innovations to these windmills continued to evolve over the years, and by the mid-19th century, steam engines were added to the system.
Visitors to Kinderdijk can take a guided tour and learn about the evolution of the windmill technology, the water management system, and the stories of the local people who used to live and work in the area.
What to Expect During Your Visit
A visit to Kinderdijk would not be complete without observing the workings of the windmills up close and observing how they pump water out of the area. Visitors can explore the area on foot, or take a boat or bicycle tour to get around.
The windmills themselves are open to tours, and visitors can climb to the top of some of them, where they can take in magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. Tour guides are available to explain how the windmills work and take visitors through the history of how the polders were drained.
Why Kinderdijk is a Must-Visit Destination
Kinderdijk is not just a beautiful and unique attraction but it also carries the significance of an integral part of Dutch culture. It represents the ongoing effort by humans to manage and protect the land from potential flood hazards. As such, it’s not only a place to admire but also to learn about the evolution of windmill technology and the challenges of water management in the Netherlands.
The Conclusion
Kinderdijk provides an incredible opportunity to witness the history and innovation of water management and windmill technology. It is not often that one gets a chance to witness an ancient system that has been in operation for hundreds of years. A visit to Kinderdijk promises to be an unforgettable experience, and an educational one too.
If you happen to be in the Netherlands or plan to visit the country, make sure to add Kinderdijk to your itinerary. The windmills and water management system are a marvel to behold, and it’s no wonder this site has been declared a UNESCO world heritage site.
