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The Hague 11/9/91 [OA 7564] [5]
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323153640
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The Hague 11/9/91 [OA 7564] [5]
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13779-009
collections
Records of the White House Office of Speechwriting (George H. W. Bush Administration)
Speech Backup Chronological Files
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S
S
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Backup Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13779
Folder ID Number:
13779-009
Folder Title:
The Hague 11/9/91 [OA 7564] [5]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
26
21
7
4
background
notes
Netherlands
United States Department of State
September 1987
Bureau of Public Affairs
4
PROFILE
Party (VVD), Democrats '66 (D'66). other
minor parties. Suffrage: Universal over 18.
Geography
Defense (1987): 3.2% of GNP.
Flag: Three horizontal stripes-red. white
Area: 41.473 sq. km. (16,464 sq. mi.). Cities:
and blue. from top to bottom.
North
DENMARK
Capital-Amsterdam (pop. 687,450). Others-
Sea
The Hague-seat of government (pop.
Economy
449,350); Rotterdam, principal port (pop.
558.850); Utrecht (pop. 231,750). Terrain:
GNP (1987): $189.8 billion: 1986, $173.4
NETHERLANDS
UNITED
Coastal lowland. Climate: Northern
billion. Annual growth rate (1987): 1.5%
KINGDOM
maritime.
(est.). Per capita income (1987): $13,065;
Amsterdam
FED.
1986, $11,958. Avg. inflation rate (1986-87):
REP.
People
- 1.0%; 1985-86, 0%.
of GER
Natural resource: Natural gas.
Nationality: Noun-Dutchmen and Dutch-
Agriculture (4.1% of Net National
women. Adjective-Dutch. Ethnic groups:
Income (NNI)): Products-wheat, barley, oats.
Predominantly Dutch: largest minority com-
sugar beets, fruits, potatoes, poultry.
Official Name:
munities are Moroccans. Turks. Surinamese,
Industry (18.7% of NNI): Types-steel.
Kingdom of the Netherlands
and Indonesians. Religions: Roman Catholic.
metal products. electronics, bulk chemicals.
Protestant. nonaffiliated, and other.
natural gas.
Language: Dutch. Education: Years
Trade (1985): Exports-$67.9 billion:
compulsory-10. Attendance-nearly 100%.
mineral fuels, chemical products, machinery
Literacy-98%. Health: Infant mortality
and transport equipment. foodstuffs.
rate-6/1.000. Life expectancy-76 yrs. (males,
Imports-$64.9 billion: mineral fuels and
73 yrs.; females, 79 yrs.). Work force (1985):
crude petroleum, machinery, chemical prod-
6.0 million. Agriculture-1.4%. Trade-17.0%.
ucts, foodstuffs. Major trade partners-FRG,
Industry-29.5%. Services-44.9%. Of the
Belgium, Luxembourg, France, UK. US.
above total, government-23.3% of the work
Official exchange rate (May 1987): 2.01
force.
Dutch guilders=USS1.
Development aid sent (0.91% of 1986
Government
GNP): $1.3 billion.
Type: Parliamentary democracy under a con-
stitutional monarch. Constitution: 1814 and
Membership in International
Organizations
1848.
Branches: Executive-monarch (chief of
UN, North Atlantic Treaty Organization
state), prime minister (head of government),
(NATO), European Community (EC),
Cabinet. Legislative-Bicameral Parliament
Organization for Economic Cooperation and
(First and Second Chambers). Judicial-
Development (OECD), International Energy
Supreme Court.
Agency (IEA). International Atomic Energy
Subdivisions: 12 provinces.
Agency (IAEA), European Monetary System.
Political parties: Christian Democratic
BENELUX Economic Union. European
Appeal (CDA). Labor Party (PvdA). Liberal
Space Agency (ESA), INTELSAT. Western
European Union. others.
0
5
6
7
NETHERLANDS
International boundary
€
National capital
Railroad
Road
WEST FRISIAN SCHIERMONK ISLANDS DOG
+
International airport
AMELAND
Emden
TERSCHELLING
VLIELAND
Leeuwarden
o
5
10
20
30 Miles
Groningen
Harlingen
o 5 10 20 30 Kilometers
TEXEL
53
53-
Den Helder
Assen
IJSSELMEER
Emmen:
Enkhuizen
NORTH
Emlichheim
SEA
Vecht
Zwolle
Haariem:
AMSTERDAM
+
Deventer
Hengelo
Hilversum
Apeldoorn
Enschede
Leiden
The Hague
Utrecht
Delft
Jissel
52
Arntrem
FEDERAL
Hoek van Holland
52
EUROPOORT
Rotterdam
Lek
Tiel
Nederrijn
REPUBLIC
Nijmegen
OF
Waat
Emmerich
Dordrecht
GERMANY
Mads
S Hertogenbosch
Oosters
Breda
chelde
Middelburg
Tilburg
sonw
Essen
Westerschelde
Eindhoven
Venfo,
Duisburg
Düsseldorf
Antwerp
Mönchen-
Gladbach
Gent
B
E1G1U M
51
Cologns
Maastricht
Schelde
BRUSSELS
Aachen
BONN
Liège
SOUNDARY REPRESENTATION IS
4
NOT NECESSARILY AUTHORITATIVE
5
...
6
7
2
Willem V of Orange. The Beigians
GEOGRAPHY
withdrew from the union in 1830 to form
The Netherlands is bordered by the
their own kingdom. Willem I abdicated
in favor of Willem II in 1840. Willem II
North Sea. Belgium. and the Federal
Republic of Germany. The country is low
was largely responsible for the liberaliz-
and flat except in the southeast. where
ing revision of the constitution in 1848.
some hills rise to 304 meters (1.000 ft.)
The Netherlands prospered during
above sea level. Because roughly one-
the long reign of Willem III (1849-90).
half of the land is below sea level. The
At the time of his death. his daughter.
Wilhelmina. was 10 years old. Her
Dutch have had to build their famous
dikes to reclaim land from the sea.
mother. Queen Emma. reigned as regent
until 1898 when Wilhelmina reached the
The warmest weather occurs
between June and September: the other
age of 18 and became the monarch.
8 months are cool or cold. Except for
Although the Netherlands was
neutral during World War I and again
occasional warm spells in summer,
temperatures rarely exceed 24 °C
proclaimed neutrality at the start of
World War II. German troops overran
(75 °F). Winters are long, and the damp
cold from the North Sea can be
the country in May 1940. Queen
Wilhelmina, Crown Princess Juliana. and
penetrating.
The Netherlands is still often called
their families fled to London and
Holland. which was the largest Dutch
established a government-in-exile;
Crown Princess Juliana and her
province and incorporated the country's
daughters continued on to Canada.
three largest and most prosperous
cities-Amsterdam. The Hague, and Rot-
where they remained until 1945. In
terdam. The original province is divided
September 1944, U.S. forces par-
into Noord-Holland and Zuid-Holland.
ticipated in the liberation of the southern
Netherlands. However. the German
Army in the rest of the Netherlands did
not surrender until May 5, 1945. The
PEOPLE
Queen and Crown Princess returned to
The Dutch are primarily of Germanic
the Netherlands shortly thereafter.
stock with some Gallo-Celtic mixture.
Queen Juliana succeeded to the throne in
They have clung tenaciously to their
1948 upon her mother's abdication. In
small homeland against the constant
Binnehof buildings, The Hague: A 13th-
April 1980, Queen Juliana abdicated in
threat of destruction by the North Sea
century palace housing both chambers of
favor of her daughter, who is now Queen
and recurrent invasions by the great
the legislature.
Beatrix.
The Netherlands' once far-flung
European powers.
Religion influences Dutch history,
empire has been granted full indepen-
society, institutions, and attitudes and is
HISTORY
dence or nearly complete autonomy since
the end of World War II. Indonesia for-
closely related to political life, though to
a diminishing degree. The right of every
Julius Caesar found the Netherlands
mally gained its independence from the
individual to religious freedom is
inhabited by Germanic tribes, one of
Netherlands in 1949. Suriname became
guaranteed by the constitution.
which. the Batavi. did not submit to
independent in 1975. The five islands of
Rome until 13 B.C., and then only as an
the Netherlands Antilles (Curacao,
Although church and state are separate.
a few historical ties remain-the royal
ally. A part of Charlemagne's empire in
Bonair, Saba, St. Eustatius, and a part
family belongs to the Dutch Reformed
the 8th century A.D., the area later
of St. Maarten) are integral parts of the
Church (Protestant).
passed into the hands of the House of
Netherlands realm but enjoy a large
The arts have played a major role in
Burgundy and the Austrian Hapsburgs.
degree of autonomy. On January 1,
the development and representation of
Falling under harsh Spanish rule in the
1986, Aruba. which had been a part of
Dutch culture. The works of Old
16th century, the Dutch revolted in
the Netherlands Antilles, was granted a
Masters. including Rembrandt and Hals.
1558, under the leadership of Willem of
separate status within the Kingdom on
and later artists, such as Mondriaan and
Orange. By virtue of the Union of
par with but apart from the other five
Van Gogh, are on display in museums
Utrecht in .1579, the seven northern
islands. (For more information. see
throughout the Netherlands. The
Dutch provinces became the Republic of
Background Notes on Netherlands
government strongly supports artists,
the United Netherlands.
Antilles.)
sculptors, and architects and attempts to
During the 17th century, considered
use their works in public projects
its "golden era," the Netherlands
whenever possible. The Amsterdam Con-
became a great sea and colonial power.
GOVERNMENT
certgebouw Orchestra and the Resident
Its importance declined, however, after
Philharmonics in The Hague and Rotter-
wars with Spain and France in the 18th
The present constitution dates from
dam enjoy excellent international reputa-
century. In 1795, French troops ousted
1848 and has been amended a number of
tions. The Netherlands active intellec-
Willem V of Orange, the Stadhouder
times. The government is based on the
tual life is stimulated by lively political
under the Dutch Republic and head of
principles of ministerial responsibility
satire and a counterculture and is sus-
the House of Orange.
and parliamentary government common
tained by prestigious universities.
Following Napoleon's defeat in 1813.
to most constitutional monarchies in
the Netherlands and Belgium became
the "Kingdom of the United Nether-
lands" under King Willem I. son of
although there can be ministers without
Courts
Travel Notes
portfolio. The ministers. collectively and
The judiciary comprises 62 cantonal
individually. are responsible to the
courts. 19 district courts. 5 courts of
Parliament. Unlike the British system.
Clothing: Clothing needs are similar to those
appeal. and a Supreme Court (24
of Washington. DC. but the Netheriands
Dutch ministers cannot simultaneously
Justices). All judicial appointments are
climate is cooler in the summer. milder in the
be members of Parliament.
made by the Monarch. Judges are
winter. and has more rain. i.e. a climate
nominally appointed for life but in fact
similar to that of Seattle. Washington.
Council of State
are retired at age 70.
Currency: Currency unit is the Dutch guilder
(Fl.); foreign exchange control regulations
A constitutionally established advisory
body to the government. the Council of
Administrative Divisions
place no limit on the amount of foreign cur-
rency or negotiable instruments that may be
State consists of members of the Royal
The first-level administrative divisions
imported.
Family and Crown-appointed members
are the 12 provinces. each governed by a
Health: Medical facilities are good. Commu-
generally having political. commercial.
locally elected provincial council and a
nity sanitation is comparable to standards in
diplomatic. or military experience. The
Council of State must be consulted by
provincial executive appointed by
US cities.
members of the provincial council. The
the cabinet on proposed legislation
Telecommunications: Facilities are good for
province is formally headed by a Queen's
before a law is submitted to Parliament.
local and long-distance use. Amsterdam and
commissioner appointed by the national
The Council of State also serves as a
The Hague are six time zones ahead of
eastern standard time.
channel of appeal for citizens against
government.
executive branch decisions.
Transportation: Good public transportation
Principal Government Officials
by bus and streetcar is available in the cities
and serves principal sectors of the city as well
States General (Parliament)
Monarch-Queen Beatrix
as the suburbs. Most Dutch cities are con-
nected by rail. and almost all regions of the
The Dutch Parliament (also called the
Council of Ministers
Netherlands are accessible by good public
"States General") consists of two
Prime Minister and Minister of General
transportation. Excellent transportation to
houses: the First Chamber and the
Affairs-Ruud F. M. Lubbers.
other principal European cities also is
Second Chamber. Historically. Dutch
Christian Democrats (CDA)
available. The main international airport is at
governments have been based on the
Deputy Prime,Minister and Economic
Schiphol. near Amsterdam. but a few interna-
support of a majority in both houses of
Affairs-Rudolf de Korte. Liberals
tional flights also arrive at Rotterdam and
Parliament.
(VVD)
Maastricht Airports.
The Second Chamber is by far the
Foreign Affairs-Hans van den Broek
more important of the two houses. It
(CDA)
alone has the right to initiate legislation
Finance-Herman O. C. R. Ruding
and amend bills submitted by the Council
(CDA)
Western Europe. It is composed of three
of Ministers and shares with the First
Defense-Willem van Eekelen (VVD)
basic institutions:
Chamber the right to question ministers
Development Cooperation-Piet Bukman
The crown (monarch, Council of
and state secretaries.
(CDA)
Ministers, and Council of State);
The Second Chamber consists of 150
Social Affairs and Employment
The States General (Parliament);
members, directly elected for a 4-year
(Netherlands Antilles)-Jan de
and
term (unless the government falls
Koning (CDA)
The Courts.
prematurely) on the basis of a nation-
Home Affairs-Cees van Dijk (CDA)
wide system of proportional representa-
Justice-Frederik Korthals Altes (VVD)
tion. This system means that members
Agriculture and Fisheries-Gerrit J. M.
The Monarch
represent the whole country, rather than
Braks (CDA)
The monarch is the titular head of state
individual districts as in the United
Education and Sciences-Wim J.
of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It is,
States. and are generally elected on a
Deetman (CDA)
however, the Council of Ministers
party slate. not on a personal basis. It
Transport and Waterways-Mrs. Neelie
(cabinet), not the Queen, that is respon-
also makes it difficult for any one party
Smit-Kroes (VVD)
sible for government policy. The Queen's
to win an absolute majority, producing a
Housing, Physical Planning and
function is largely ceremonial. but she
tradition of coalition government in the
Environment-Ed Nijpels (VVD)
does have some influence deriving from
Netherlands. Elections for the Second
Ambassador to the United States-
the traditional veneration of the House
Chamber were most recently held in
Richard Fein
of Orange (from which Dutch monarchs
May 1986. New elections are not con-
Ambassador to the United Nations-
for more than three centuries have been
stitutionally required until 1990.
Adriaan Jacobovits de Szegd
chosen), the personal qualities of Queen
The First Chamber is composed of
Beatrix and Queen Juliana before her,
75 members elected for 4-year terms by
The Netherlands maintains an
and the power to appoint the formateur.
the 12 provincial legislatures. It cannot
embassy in the United States at 4200
who is charged with the formation of a
initiate or amend legislation, but its
Linnean Avenue NW., Washington, D.C.
Council of Ministers following elections.
approval of bills passed by the Second
20008 (tel. 202-244-5300). Consulates
Chamber is required before bills become
general are in Chicago. Houston. Los
The Council of Ministers
law. The First Chamber generally meets
Angeles, New York City, and San
only once a week. and its members
Francisco.
The Council of Ministers is responsible
usually have other full-time jobs. The
for the formulation and implementation
last First Chamber elections were held
of government policy. Most ministers
in June 1987.
also head government ministries.
4
27299-
EGEL
888
Madurodam. the famous miniature city in The Hague.
POLITICAL CONDITIONS
and the Liberals. The social democratic-
occupies the political center among the
oriented Labor Party generally has been
Four principal groups-Catholics, Prot-
major Dutch political parties. It supports
in opposition. except between 1973-77
estants. Labor. and Liberais-form the
free enterprise and NATO membership
and twice briefly (April 1965 to October
historical basis for the three main
and holds to the principle that govern-
1966 and September 1981 to May 1982).
ment activity should supplement but not
political parties. Because of the Dutch
The current government formed in
supplant communal action by citizens.
system of proportional representation.
July 1986 is a center-right coalition of
The CDA sees its philosophy as between
no one party has gained an absolute
the Christian Democratic (CDA) and
the "individualism" of the Liberals and
majority in Parliament in recent times.
Liberal (VVD) parties headed by Prime
the "statism" of the Labor Party. The
This has resulted in coalition govern-
Minister Ruud Lubbers of the CDA. The
CDA won 54 seats in the May 1986
ments that pursue generally centrist
government has the support of 81 of the
parliamentary elections. This represents
policies. although there are swings in
150 members of the Second Chamber.
the party's strongest showing since the
political approach depending on whether
Nine political parties are currently
CDA first ran a common slate of can-
a center-left or center-right government
represented in the Second Chamber,
didates in 1977.
is in power.
with the four largest parties holding 142
Labor Party (PvdA). The PvdA is
From the end of World War II until
of the 150 seats.
December 1958. the Netherlands was
the most left-wing of the three major
Christian Democrats (CDA). The
parties. Labor has 52 seats in the cur-
governed by a series of coalitions built
Christian Democratic Party was formed
rent Second Chamber and is thus the
on a Labor-Catholic base. Since 1958.
from a merger of the Catholic People's
second largest party after the CDA. It is
governments have been formed primar-
Party (KVP) and two Protestant parties.
ily from a center-right coalition of the
currently in the parliamentary opposi-
the Anti-Revolutionary Party (ARP) and
tion, and has been for 8 of the last 9
Christian Democrats (or the one Catholic
the Christian-Historical Union (CHU).
years. The PvdA is a European social
and two Protestant parties from which
The merger process. begun in the early
the Christian Democrats were formed)
democratic party. The party's program
1970s to attempt to stem the tide of
is based on greater social. political, and
losses suffered by religiously based par-
economic equality for all citizens.
ties. was completed in 1980. The CDA
5
In 1959. the vast Siochteren gas
Composition of the States General
field in Groningen Province began pro-
duction and is now one of the world's
First Chamber
Seats
Second Chamber
Seats
largest producing natural gas fields. In
addition. the Netherlands also dis-
Christian Democratic
Christian Democratic
covered gas on the North Sea's continen
Appeal
26
Appeal
54
tal shelf. At present. total natural gas
Labor Party
26
Labor Party
52
reserves (mainland and North Sea)
Liberal Party
12
Liberal Party
27
amount to 1.9 trillion cubic meters. The
Democrats '66
5
Democrats 66
!
Political Reformed
Political Reformed
reserves of other Dutch gas fields.
Party
1
Party
3
including the Dutch North Sea sector.
Political Party
Political Party
total about 18% of those of Slochteren.
of the Radicals
1
of the Radicals
2
Current gas production is running annu-
Pacifist Socialist
Pacifist Socialist
ally at about 80 billion cubic meters, half
Party
1
Party
1
of which is exported to EC member
Communist Party
1
countries. General government revenues
Reformed Political
Reformed Political
from natural gas totaled about $8.7
Confederation
1
Confederation
1
Reformed Political
Reformed Political
billion in 1986 and accounted for more
Alliance
1
Alliance
1
than 14% of total government revenue.
dropping to $3.8 billion in 1987 (6% of
Total seats
75
Total seats
150
revenue).
Dutch economic growth in the last
several years has been limited by the
although in recent years the party has
ECONOMY
world's general economic slowdown.
After an average 2% growth in 1984-86.
begun to debate to what extent the cen-
tral government should be the vehicle
The Dutch economy is based on private
real growth in 1987 is estimated at
1.5%. Inflation reached 2.5% in 1985.
for accomplishing these goals. The PvdA
enterprise. The government has little
stabilized at 0% in 1986. and is
supports Dutch NATO membership but
direct ownership or participation. but it
is critical of many alliance policies. par-
heavily influences the economy. with
forecast to drop to a negative 1% in
more than 45% of the gross national
1987. The Netherlands' balance-of-pay-
ticularly regarding nuclear weapons. and
ments current account has been in
remains firmly opposed to the deploy-
product (GNP) involved in its operations
ment of cruise weapons in the
and social programs (including transfer
strong surplus in recent years because of
payments). Government at all levels
improved export competitiveness. earn-
Netherlands.
Liberals (VVD). The VVD is
makes its presence felt through the
ings from gas. and depressed internal
demand.
"liberal" in the European. rather than
many regulations and permit require-
American, sense of the word. It thus
ments pertaining to almost every aspect
attaches great importance to private
of economic activity.
enterprise and the freedom of the indi-
Services, which account for half of
FOREIGN RELATIONS
vidual in political, social. and economic
the national income, are primarily in
affairs. The VVD is generally seen as the
transport and financial areas. such as
The Netherlands pursued a neutralist
most conservative of the major parties.
banking and insurance. Industrial activ-
foreign policy for much of its modern
It is a solid supporter of most NATO
ity provides about 19% of the national
history. This neutrality. however. was
policies. The VVD has been the junior
income and is dominated by the
abandoned after World War II. and the
partner in a governing coalition with the
metalworking. oil refining, chemical. and
Dutch saw the Western alliance as the
CDA since 1982. After registering large
food-processing industries. Construction
best means to ensure security and pro-
gains in 1982 national elections. the
amounts to about 6% of the national
mote national interests. The postwar
VVD was the major loser in the 1986
income. Agriculture and fishing.
Netherlands governments have pursued
voting, dropping from 36 to 27 seats in
although visible and traditional Dutch
an active, engaged foreign policy in
the Second Chamber.
activities, account for a little more
many areas of the world.
Democrats ''66 (D'66). The largest
than 4%.
In addition to pursuit of national
of the "small" parties in the Dutch
Foreign trade heavily influences the
interests. Dutch foreign policy in recent
Parliament. the electoral fortunes of
open Dutch economy. with exports
years has been rooted in several impor-
D'66 have fluctuated widely since the
accounting for 62% of GNP. The
tant principles. which include the promo-
Netherlands finds a liberal commercial
tion of peace and security in Europe and.
party's founding in 1966. Its current
nine seats roughly reflect the historical
policy advantageous and participates as
where possible. in other areas of the
average of the party's showing over the
a charter member in the European Com-
world. support for the development of
last 20 years. D'66 is a center-left party
munity (EC), the BENELUX Economic
the Third World. and respect for inter-
(generally portrayed as between the
Union, and the European Monetary
national law and human rights.
System. It is a firm supporter of the
The Netherlands seeks to advance
CDA and PvdA), with its strongest sup-
port among young. urban. professional
General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade
many of its foreign policy objectives
voters. D'66 is currently in the
(GATT) and is a subscriber to the suc-
through multilateral cooperation. Its
parliamentary opposition.
cessful conclusion of the multilateral
security policy is based upon member-
trade negotiations in establishing freer
ship in NATO. Economic and trade
and expanded world trade.
policy is closely coordinated through the
EC and. to a lesser extent. other inter-
national bodies. such as the Organization
for Economic Cooperation and Develop-
ment. GATT. and the International
Monetary Fund.
6
Further Information
These titles are provided as a general indica-
tion of the material published on this country.
The Department of State does not endorse
unofficial publications.
Baena. Duke of. The Dutch Puzzic. The
Hague: L.J.C. Boucher. 1975 (fifth ed.).
Bailey. Anthony. The Light in Holland. New
York: Alfred A. Knopf. 1970.
Devries. Johan. The Netheriands Economy In
The Twentieth Century. Atlantic
Highlands. N.J.: The Humanities Press.
1978.
Everts. Philip (ed.). Controversies at Home:
Domestic Factors in the Foreign Policy of
the Netherlands. Boston/Dordrecht: M.
Nijhoff. 1985.
Hart. Maarten. Bearers of Bad Tidings.
Allison & Busby. 1985.
Huggett. Frank. The Modern Netherlands.
New York: Praeger. 1971.
Leurdijk. J.H. (ed.). The Foreign Policy of the
Netherlands. Alphen aan den Rijn:
Sijthoff and Noordhoff. 1978.
Lijphart. Arend. The Politics of Accommoda-
tion: Pluralism and Democracy in the
Netherlands. Berkeley: University of
California Press. 1968.
Meijer. Reinder P. Literature of the Low
Countries. M. Nijhoff. 1978.
Mulisch. Harry. The Assault. Pantheon. 1985.
Newton. Gerald. The Netherlands: An
Historical and Cultural Survey.
1795-1977. London: Ernest Benn Ltd.,
1978.
Nooteboom. Cees. Rituals. Louisiana State
University Press. 1983.
Nordholt. J.W. Schulte and Swierenga.
Robert. A Bilateral Bicentennial: A
History of Dutch-American Relations.
1782-1982. Amsterdam: Meulenhoff. 1982.
The Hague: Cyclists relax in front of the Peace Palace. which also houses the International
Schetter. W.Z. The Pillars of Society: Six
Court of Justice.
Centuries of Civilization in the
Netherlands. The Hague: M. Nijhoff.
1971.
Other foreign policy interests
Africa. and Central America). The Dutch
Snellen. I.Th.M. (ed.). Limits of Government:
generally take into account consultations
also contribute large amounts of aid
Dutch Experiences. Amsterdam: Kobra
within European Political Cooperation.
through multilateral channels (32% or
Publishers. 1985.
the political consultation process of the
$373 million). especially the UN Develop-
Terlouw. Jan. Winter In Wartime. McGraw
EC. The Netherlands also is a member
ment Program (10%), International
Hill. 1976.
of the BENELUX group (Belgium.
Development Association (7%). and EC
Voorhoeve. Joris. Peace. Profits and Prin-
Netherlands. Luxembourg). Finally, the
programs (8%). Some aid funds are chan-
ciples: A Study of Dutch Foreign Policy.
nelled through private ("cofinancing")
Dordrecht/Boston: M. Nijhoff. 1979.
Netherlands is an active and responsible
participant in the United Nations and its
organizations that have almost total
affiliated organizations.
autonomy in choice of projects.
The Netherlands is a strong pro-
The Netherlands has relations with
tional and regional organizations to fur-
ponent of North-South cooperation and
all communist countries except North
ther free trade, economic cooperation,
maintains an impressive development
Korea.
and assistance to developing countries.
assistance program. Aid commitments
are fixed by law at 1.5% of net national
income. although actual disbursements
U.S.-DUTCH RELATIONS
DEFENSE
have not always reached that level in
recent years. Bilateral aid (68% of total
The excellent relations between the
The defense structure of the Nether-
aid) is focused on 10 concentration coun-
United States and the Netherlands are
lands comprises the Ministry of Defense
tries (Bangladesh. Egypt. India.
based on close historical and cultural ties
and the various branches of the armed
Indonesia. Kenya. North Yemen.
and a common dedication to the security
forces-the Royal Netherlands Navy, the
Pakistan. Sudan. Sri Lanka. Tanzania)
of the Western world. An outward-
Royal Netherlands Army. the Royal
and three geographic regions requiring
looking nation. the Netherlands works
Netherlands Air Force. and the Royal
special attention (the Sahel. Southern
with the United States bilaterally and in
Netherlands Military Constabulary
the United Nations and other interna-
7
(Marechaussee). Political responsibility
Air Force weapons systems are primar-
The U.S. Embassy is located at
for the defense of the Netherlands lies
ily fighter aircraft and surface-to-air
Lange Voorhout 102. 2514 EJ The
with the Minister of Defense and a State
guided weapons.
Hague (tel. 070-62-49-11). The Con-
Secretary.
sulate general is at Museumplein 13.
The Royal Netheriands Armed
Principal U.S. Officials
1071 DJ Amsterdam
Forces (RNAF) have a total peacetime
(tel. 020-790-321).
personnel strengh of about 123,000
Ambassador-John S.R. Shad
military and civilians. The services are
Deputy Chief of Mission-John H. Rouse
currently engaged in an ambitious force
Political Counselor-Alan R. McKee
Published by the United States Department
of State
Bureau of Public Affairs
Office
modernization program outlined in the
Economic Counselor-David P. Rehfuss
of Public Communication
Editorial Divi-
1987-96 defense procurement plan.
Administrative Counselor-Johny
sion
Washington. D.C.
September 1987
The main mission of the Royal
Young
Editor: Juanita Adams
Netherlands Army is the defense of a
Commercial Counselor-Harrison B.
section of the North German plain. The
Sherwood
Department of State Publication 7967
Public Affairs Counselor-William
Background Notes Series
army is introducing new weapons
This material is
systems, with the accent on antiarmor
La Salle
in the public domain and may be reproduced
without permission: citation of this source
and air defense. The Royal Netherlands
Defense and Naval Attache-Capt.
would be appreciated.
Navy is composed of escort ships, sub-
Roger E. Carlson
marines, maritime patrol aircraft.
Army Attache-Col. Lance J. Burton
For sale by the Superintendent of Docu-
helicopters, a mine countermeasure
Air Attache-Col. Frederick M. Banks
ments. U.S. Government Printing Office.
force, and a Marine Corps. as well as the
Agriculture Counselor-John E. Montel
Washington, D.C. 20402
necessary supporting elements. Priority
Chief, Office of Defense Cooperation-
is given to antisubmarine warfare, with
Col. Robert G. Hanus. USAF
increasing emphasis on air defense and
Country Attache-Narcotics-William J.
surface warfare. The Royal Netherlands
Wolf
Customs Attache-James W. Wilkie
Consul General. Amsterdam-Jake M.
Dyels
8
HOLLAND
information
for
WELCOME
COME
visitors
and
newly arrived
personnel
PREPARED BY THE AMERICAN EMBASSY
THE HAGUE, NETHERLANDS
VISITORS
THE AMERICAN EMBASSY WELCOMES YOU TO HOLLAND AND HOPES THAT YOUR VISIT HERE
WILL BE A PLEASANT ONE.
TABLE OF.CONTENTS
Page
WELCOME TO HOLLAND; WHOM TO CALL IN AN EMERGENCY
3
MONEY
4
RESTAURANTS
5.
SHOPPING and BUSINESS HOURS
7
OUTDOOR MARKETS
10
CLOTHING SIZE CONVERSION GUIDE
11
MAIL SERVICES
12
WHERE YOU ARE; WHERE YOU WANT TO BE; HOW TO GET THERE
13
HINTS FOR DRIVING IN THE NETHERLANDS
14
ENTERTAINMENT
15
PLACES OF INTEREST TO VISITORS
16
CHURCHES
21
ENGLISH-LANGUAGE BROADCASTS
23
OUTLINE OF U.S. MISSION THE HAGUE
25
- 5
WELCOME TO HOLLAND!!
This booklet is for your convenience during your visit to The Hague. Your
Welcome Kit contains additional information including tourist brochures about
places you might want to visit. Please feel free to ask the staff of the
Administrative Office (Ext. 271) or the Community Liaison Office (Ext. 274)
for any additional assistance.
WHOM TO CALL IN AN EMERGENCY
A Marine Guard is always on duty when the Embassy is closed. He can reach the
Embassy Duty Officer in an emergency. Dial 62.49.11. When dialing from
outside The Hague dial 070-62.49.11.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Police (alarm)
222222
Police-station The Hague (general)
104911
Fire Station
222333
Ambulance
222111
Physician (night service)
469669
Veterinary surgeon
255907
Dentist (day, night, weekend)
974491
Pharmacies (from 5:30 pm on and on the weekend)
451000
Pharmacies
Pharmacies, "Apotheek" in Dutch, sell only prescription medicines and related
products. They take turns providing night and Sunday services. In
emergencies you may obtain this information from the Police. (For The Hague
call 22.22.22.)
TELEPHONING
How to Use the Local Telephone Directory
For calls in The Netherlands consult page 14 of any Telephone Directory on how
to use the directory and to make a call; first dial the area code (city),
wait to hear a high uninterrupted buzzing, then dial the number of the
subscriber. If no area code is listed, dial 008 for information.
For Information: To obtain numbers not listed in the telephone book or those
which have been changed within The Netherlands, dial 008 for information
- 6--
MONEY
The Netherlands currency is based on the guilder ("gulden" in Dutch). It is
abbreviated "F1." or "Dfl" for florin derived from the French because the
coins originally had a floral pattern.
The exchange rate fluctuates from day to day. The guilder consists of 100
Dutch cents, 5 cents (the coin called a "stuiver"); 10 cents (the coin called
a "dubbeltje"); and 25 cents (the coin called a "kwartje"). There is also a
one guilder, two-and-half guilder piece (a "Rijksdaalder," worth two guilders
and fifty cents) and a five guilder piece. The paper currency is issued in
five, ten, twenty-five, fifty, one-hundred, two-hundred and fifty, and
one-thousand guilder notes.
American dollars or travelers checks can be exchanged at banks, hotels and
some shops. Generally personal checks will not be accepted.
For U.S. Government employees on official business, check cashing service is
available from the Embassy Cashier during the hours between 10 - 12 Monday
through Friday.
TIPPING IN THE NETHERLANDS
Restaurants, hotels and bars include a service charge (usually 15%) when
totaling a bill for food and beverages. A bill ("rekening") with the tip
included is called "inclusief." The gratuity covers. all service personnel.
An extra tip is in order if you have received exceptional service or asked for
special attention. This amount should never exceed half of the included tip,
and one third is perhaps most usual.
Taxi drivers always include at least 15% tip. If you are in doubt, ask
whether the fare is "inclusief." The minimum tip is one Dutch guilder.
There is usually a small charge (25 c.) for the use of rest rooms
(W.C./Toilet). If the charge is not specified, a tip of approximately
twenty-five Dutch cents is appropriate. In most cloakrooms ("garderobe") a
set fee is charged for service.
Tips are given the day after New Year's day to all who have served you daily
throughout the year (i.e. the milk man, baker, newsboy, etc.)
RESTAURANTS
RECOMMENDED BUT RATHER EXPENSIVE:
KITCHEN
THE HAGUE
ADDRESS
PHONE
CLOSED
CLOSES
Saur (fish)
Lange Voorhout 47-53
463344
Sunday
22:00
Des Indes 'Le Restaurant'
Lange Voorhout
54-56
469553
22:00
Royal
Lange Voorhout 44
600772
Sunday
22:00
Chez Eliza
Hooikade 14
462603
Sat/Sun.
22:00
La Cigogne
Van Stolkweg 1
574121
22:00
(Promenade Hotel)
SCHEVENINGEN:
Kurhaus Restaurant
Gevers Denootplein 30 520052 18:30-11:00
'La Kandinsky'
lunch: 12:00-16:30
WASSENAAR
Auberge "De Kieviet"
Stoeplaan 27
01751/79203 Monday
22:00
OEGSTGEEST
De Beukenhoff
Terweeweg 2-4
071/153177 Sunday
22:00
GOOD RESTAURANTS, MODERATELY PRICED
THE HAGUE
Bistroquet
Lange Voorhout 98
601170
Sunday
22:00
'T Gemeste Schaap
Raamstraat 7-9
639572
Thurs.*
22:00
Bar-B-Q Bontje
Javastraat 7a
460118
22:00
Bistro Bontje
D. Hoogenraadstr.224a
522711
23:00
Le Gentilhomme
Noordeinde 148
464664
23:00
Trias
Lange Houtstraat 3
651175
10:00
SCHEVENINGEN
Kurzaal (Kurhaus)
Gevers Deynootplein
520052
-
22:00
(buffet-type only)
12:00-13:30, daily, also in evening 18:00-22:00.
De Lobster Pot (Fish)
Dr. Lelykade 23
501039 Wed.
22:00
Bistro le Bon Mangeur
Wassenaarsestraat 119 559213 Sun./Mon. 22:00
*from 4/1-9/1
- 8.-
FISH RESTAURANTS
KITCHEN
MENU #
SCHEVENINGEN
ADDRESS
PHONE
CLOSED
CLOSES
ESTIMATE
Ducdalf
Dr. Lelykade
557692
-
21:45
Havenrestaurant
Van der Toom
Treilerdwarsweg 2a
545783
Sunday
19:30
THE HAGUE
Bistro-Mer (Bontje)
Javastraat 9
607389
23:00
De Verliefde Kreeft
Bleijenburg 9-11
644522
23:00
ITALIAN RESTAURANTS THE HAGUE
Da Roberto
Noordeinde 196
464977
Tuesday
23:00
Roma
Papestraat 22
462345
Tuesday
22:00
Marco Polo (Restaur.)
Kettingstraat 9-11
652080
Monday
22:00
Marco Polo (Pizzeria)
Kettingstraat lb
466281 *
22:00
Pizza Biffi
Denneweg 142
649497
Monday
22:00
Pizza Hut
Noordeinde 140c
468511
Monday
22:00
*Pizzeria; Wedn. : 12:00-14:30/17:00-22:00. Thur.: 16:00-22:00. Sat.: 12:00-22:00. On
Sunday no lunches, open 16:00-22:00.
JAPANESE RESTAURANT THE HAGUE
Shogun
Lange Houtstraat 3
655486
Sunday
22:00
Hours 12:00-14:00/15:30-22:00.
CHINESE/INDONESIAN RESTAURANTS THE HAGUE
Garoeda
Kneuterdijk 18A
465319
22:00
Tampat Senang (music)
Ln.v.Meerdervoort 6
636787
21:30
China
Denneweg 120 A
643545
22:00
Woo Ping
Korte Poten 3
462805
22:00
Raden Ajoe
Lange Poten 31
644592
22:00
Sarinah
Gouden Regenplein 4
601585
21:45
first floor restaurant closed Mon. & Tue. ; ground floor restaurant closed Monday.
RIJSWIJK
De Chinese Muur
Jan Thijssenweg 16
992776
23:00
(Drievliet)
SCHEVENINGEN
Bali
Badhuisweg 1
502434
22:30
FAST FOOD
Mc Donald's
Buitenhof 22
650959
22:00
Mc Donald's
Plein 6
642763
22:00
Mc Donald's (Schev.)
Strandweg 59
542787
22:00
Burger King
Gev. Deynootw
503917
#: Miminum price-indication for a three-course menu.
9.
WHERE TO SHOP
GROCERY STORES & SUPERMARKETS IN THE HAGUE:
V & D (Vroom & Dreesman) Department Store, Spuistraat 45, tel. 92.42.11, large
supermarket in basement.
KONMAR, Elandstraat 142 Tel. 45.86.47, or Laakweg 126 Tel. 98.03.67.
ALBERT HEIJN, Weimarstraat 110-118 Tel. 64.97.71 or Leyweg 1018 Tel. 66.75.16.
HEMA Department Store, Grote Marktstraat/Voldersgracht 57, tel. 65.98.44,
limited food department.
BABYLON Shopping Center, next to Centraal Station (not far from the Embassy).
Westerman Grocery, Maliestraat 1, tel. 46.25.56 (off the Denneweg, close to
the Embassy and Des Indes Hotel).
KIJKDUIN (near Atlantic Hotel):
Shops are situated below Promenade.
A & 0 Supermarket, 19 Teunisbloemlaan, tel. 68.86.54.
Centra Supermarket Waldeck, A. Diepenbroekhof 2, (Waldeck Shopping Center)
tel.: 91.01.13.
SCHEVENINGEN (near Flora Beach Hotel):
You will find many food stores on the Keizerstraat & Stevinstraat, the main
shopping streets of Scheveningen.
CLOTHING, GIFTS, SOUVENIRS
The finest shopping district in The Hague is the Noordeinde and its two
extensions, Hoogstraat and Venestraat, in the center of town. You will find
clothing, shoes, furniture, china, crystal, oriental rugs, antiques, and
silver shops there.
Two department stores, Vroom & Dreesman and the Bijenkorf are sometimes
crowded, but they stock many excellent articles at prices sometimes lower than
those in some small shops.
"Best buys" are brass, copper, Delft blue, Leerdam and Maastricht crystal, and
diamonds.
- 10-
WHERE TO FIND
Pewter, Souvenirs
Address
Phone
Amusa-Kroes C.V.
Passage 22
460489
De Hollandsche Molen
Strandweg, 131, Scheveningen
547479
Diamonds - NOTE: all addresses listed below are in Amsterdam
Simons
Kalverstraat 98
020/239833
Bernard Schipper N.V.
"
38
II /226929
Coster Diamonds
Paulus Potterstraat 2
" /762222
Herman Schipper N.V.
Heiligeweg 3
" /236572
Schaap en Citroen
Kalverstraat 1
" /266691
Antique Shops
These are SO plentiful that just a stroll through the city streets will present
you with many temptations. Look under "Antiquair" in the telephone book for a
complete listing.
Antique Walk
The VVV (Tourist Organization) has mapped out several routes such as the
"Antique Walk" along many curio shops in the old inner city. It is printed on
the back of a reproduction of a 1614 print "Bird's Flight Over the Hague." Or
try the "Neptune Route," through the fishing village of Scheveningen. The
"Art Nouveau Route," takes you on a walk along houses in "new art" style.
Consider a bicycle trip through the southwest and north of The Hague, and wander
through the scenic dunes Routes are available at the VVV information offices
for Dfl. 1.
Auction Houses ("Veilingbedrijf")
Auctions are held periodically. Most auction houses will be delighted to put
your name on their mailing list. A viewing day ("Kijkdag") is always held prior
to the actual sale, SO that potential bidders may view the merchandise in
advance. Bids can usually be left at the office if you cannot attend the auction
house commission. Inquire in advance as to exactly what percentage will be
charged for commission.
Dutch Specialities for Gifts
Cheese
Holiday sweets and cookies
Blankets
Chocolate (for example, Droste)
Delft Pottery
Bulbs (must be ordered before mid-October)
Wooden Shoes
Tiles
Silver
Pewter
Costume Dolls
Cigars
Stainless Steel
Dutch size coffee & teaspoons (demitasse)
Crystal and Glass
Cookie Boards
Brass
Copper
- 11
Traffic-free shopping areas:
Centrally situated next to The Hague Central Station is the shopping-center
BABYLON. This covered area boasts several elegant shops, parking in the
underground carpark, several restaurants and three cinemas.
In the center of The Hague are three covered shopping complexes: THE ARCADE
(PASSAGE) with its Venetian style dome the first covered shopping arcade in The
Netherlands, THE PASSADENHA and the traffic-free PALACE and CITY PROMENADE.
The covered shopping-center KIJKDUIN PROMENADE is situated adjacent to the beach
in Kijkduin. Parking is available free of charge and the shops are open in the
evenings and on Sundays.
You can find several shopping complexes in Scheveningen:
The PALACE PROMENADE, the GEVERS DEYNOOTPLEIN and the BOULEVARD. A lively area
with shops, bars and restaurants which cater to all tastes. Seven days a week
(evenings also) you can purchase something or go window-shopping in relaxed
surroundings. The Palace Promenade also offers several entertainment
possibilities.
SHOPPING HOURS
Department stores are closed Monday mornings. Certain stores close for half-day
periods during the week and many are closed for lunch between 1 and 2 o'clock.
In general, stores are open on weekdays from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and are closed
on Sundays. Shopkeepers are obliged to indicate their opening hours on their
door or in their shop window.
Shops may be open a total of 52 hours per week.
Thursday (shopping-night) 7 PM - 9 PM.
Saturday 9 AM - 5 PM.
Closed on Sundays.
In addition, during the period March 15 - October 15, the shops in the vicinity
of the Scheveningen Boulevard and the shops at the Deltaplein in Kijkduin may
open: Mon. - Sat.: until 11 PM. Sun. and Holidays: 9 AM - 8 PM.
From October 16 - March 14 on Sun. and Holidays 9 AM - 8 PM, and also open during
this period in Scheveningen on Friday evening in Gentsestraat, Stevinstraat,
Boulevard, and Palace Promenade.
Hairdressers and barbers are usually closed all day Monday in The Hague.
Schedules differ from town to town, however, so it is advisable to check before
planning your shopping.
Food stores and small neighborhood shops often close between 1 and 2 PM for lunch.
- 12--
OUTDOOR MARKETS
These are held weekly in most towns in The Netherlands. Listed below are some of
the larger and more popular markets:
The Hague
- Antique-, book-, picture-, and curio-market is held every Thursday between 11 AM
and 9 PM on the Lange Voorhout from May 15 thru September 30 only.
At the Plein every Thursday 11 AM - 9 PM from October 1 thru May 14.
There is a general market including a "flea market," located at the Hobbemaplein
every Friday, Saturday and Monday.
- Markthof Gedempte Gracht/Spui, Monday 11 am - 6 PM: Tuesday-Saturday
9 AM - 6 PM; Thursday 9 AM - 9 PM.
- Market Leyweg: Tuesday 8 AM - 5 PM.
- Wares Market: Herman Costerstraat; Mon, Fri 8 AM - 6 PM,
Sat. 8 AM - 5 PM.
- Stamp Market: - corner Paleisstraat/Noordeinde ; Wed. afternoon and Sat.
morning.
- Amacitia: Westeinde 15; Sat. noon - 5:30 PM.
Amsterdam Open daily: general market Mon. - Sat., Nieuwe Markt.
General Market Mon. - Sat., Albert Cuypstraat. "Flea Market" Mon. - Sat.,
Waterlooplein.
Delft Open air market on Thursday 9 AM - 4 PM.
Especially the flower-market on this day in Spring and Summer is recommended.
Leiden every Wednesday and Saturday; located behind the City Hall (Stadhuis).
General Market: Nieuwe Rijn, Wed. 7 AM - 6 PM.
Leidschendam market - parking lot of the Leidsenhage shopping center on Tuesday,
9 AM - 5 PM.
Loosduinen open air market Wednesday 9 AM - 4 PM.
Voorburg open air market, Rosenboomlaan on Saturday, 9 AM - 4 PM.
Voorschoten open air market, Voorstraat on Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM.
Rotterdam Every Tuesday and Saturday, Grote Markt by Blaak train station
(Binnenrotte): fruits, vegetables, fabrics, general market and a "Flea Market."
Scheveningen open air market at Stevinstraat on Thursday 9 AM-4:30 PM.
Fish-Auction: Visafslagweg, Mon.-Sat. 7:30-9 AM.
Wassenaar open air market on Tuesday, opposite Duinrell.
- 13--
CLOTHING SIZES CONVERSION GUIDE
Remember: European sizes are not as standardized as American. Sheet and
pillowcase sizes also differ from the American sizes.
Women's Dresses, Coat & Suits
American
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
British
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
Continental
36
38
40
42
44
46
48
Women's Blouses, Sweaters
American
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
British
30
32
34
36
38
40
42
Continental
36
38
40
42
44
46
48
Shoes
American
5.5
6.0
6.5
7.0
7.5
8.0
8.5
9.0
9.5
10.0
10.5
11.0
British
3.0
3.5
4.0
4.5
5.0
5.5
6.0
6.5
7.0
7.5
8.0
8.5
Continental
35.5
36.0
36.5
37.0
37.5
38.0
38.5
39.0
39.5
40.0
40.5
41.0
Men's Suits & Overcoats
American
34
36
38
40
42
44
46
48
British
34
36
38
40
42
44
46
48
Continental
42
44
46
48
50
52
54
56
Men's Shirts
American
14.5
15
15.5
16
16.5
17
17.5
18
British
14.5
15
15.5
16
16.5
17
17.5
18
Continental
37
38
39
41
42
43
44
45
Shoes
American
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
British
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Continental
39.5
41
42
43
44.5
46
47
To calculate your child's Dutch shoe size, measure his foot in centimeters, then
multiply by 1.5 (i.e. for a foot measuring 20 cms., the proper size is 20 X 1.5 =
size 30).
- 14--
Mail Services
International mailing addresses including required postal code for the Embassy
and Consulates are as follows:
Mr. John Doe
Mr. John Doe
American Embassy
American Consulate General
Lange Voorhout 102
Museumplein 19
2514 EJ The Hague
1071 DJ Amsterdam
The Netherlands
The Netherlands
Current rates for international mail through The Netherlands PTT are as
follows:
Letters within country,
and EEC
: 75 Dutch cents per 20 grams
Letters in Europe outside EEC
: 1 guilder per 20 grams
Letters (airmail) to U.S.
: Fl. 1.30 for first 10 grams (letters
between 10 - 20 grams are Fl. 1.50;
letters 20-30 grams F1. 2.10
Changes in PTT postal rates will be published in the Embassy weekly "The
Windmill."
EMBASSY MAILROOM
Opening hours: 07:30-13:00 - 14:00-17:15. Lunch: 13:00 - 14:00.
POST OFFICE HOURS
All post offices indicated on map The Hague, Main Post Office:
Nobelstraat/Prinsestraat/Kerkplein, tel. 71.94.49.
Open: Mon.-Fri. 8:30 AM - 7 PM, Sat. 9 AM till noon, Thurs. till 8:30 PM.
Scheveningen: Post Office, Strandweg 37 (opposite Pier) tel. 55.59.59. Open
mid June-mid Aug.: Mon.-Fri. 8:30 AM - 6 PM, Sat. 9 AM - 4 PM;
mid Aug-mid June: Mon.-Fri. 8:30-5 PM, Sat. 9 AM - 4 PM.
Local post offices normally open at 8:30 AM and close at 5 PM. These hours
may vary, however, SO check with your local branch.
TAXIS
Taxis are expensive and do not cruise. You can find them at taxi stands (a.
"Taxi Standplaats"), or call 90.77.22.
BUS AND TRAM
Bus and tram services are excellent. A map of The Hague bus and tram lines
is in the Welcome Packet. Tickets can be purchased from special sales
points, such as drugstores, tobacconists and major post offices. They can
also be purchased from the driver, but are more expensive than the
multiple-ride tickets which can be purchased at the special sales points.
If you use public transportation often, it might be more economical to
purchase a monthly ticket, which may be bought at the Centraal or Hollands
Spoor (railway) Stations. These tickets are valid on all bus and tram
lines as far as Voorburg. Special rates for students (under 18 years of
age) are available as well. For information call the Tram and Bus Company,
called the Head Office HTM tel. 848484, Dynamostraat 10, The Hague, open
7:30 AM - 11 PM; or the Railway stations H.S. and C.S.
Please note the brochure in your welcome kit concerning the use of your bus
and tram ticket, The "Strippenkaart."
Information Dutch trams and busses: Tel. 82.41.41.
Trams No. 2, 3, 6, 7, 9, 12 and busses No. 4, 25 leave from Central Station.
Trams No. 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and busses No. 5, 18, 20, 30 leave from Hollands
Spoor Station.
TRAINS
Information: daily 7:30 AM - 11 PM , Tel. 82.41.41.
Station H.S., direction Amsterdam (north) ,Rotterdam, Belgium and France
(south).
Station C.S., direction Amsterdam, Utrecht and Germany (east).
There is a direct train-connection with Schiphol Airport (called The
Schiphol Line, note the small airplane on the departure board), leaving
from railway station Den Haag Centraal and station Hollands Spoor.
Duration: 30 minutes.
CYCLING IN HOLLAND
As volksmarching is to Germany, cycling is to Holland--an in-depth way of
touring the country and meeting the people. The possibilities for bicycle
touring are endless. Trips may combine train, car, and bicycle for more
extensive adventure. The ANWB (auto club) has bike route maps for sale,
plus a free map of the Netherlands called the "Fietsroutekaart Nederland."
Maps of circular bike routes that can be done in a day are also available
at the ANWB or bookstores.
- 16--
HINTS FOR DRIVING IN THE NETHERLANDS
The speed limit in The Netherlands is 50 kilometers in town, 70 kilometers
for some roads in the outskirts, and 100-120 kilometers on the highways as
indicated. The car coming from the right has the right-of-way at most
intersections including alleys, streets and traffic circles.
Through streets which have precedence (you don't give way to the right) are
indicated by white-bordered orange diamonds posted on the light poles along
the street. For the traffic entering these priority streets, there are two
types of signs on posts at the corner which are similar to U.S. "stop"
signs. The first is a red-bordered white triangular sign which indicates
that you must yield to all traffic on the priority street, but does not
require that you stop if there is no approaching traffic. The second is an
octangular sign which bears the word "Stop," and does require you to stop,
traffic or not. For these through-streets only, the right-of-way rule does
not apply for cars using them. Otherwise, you will find that cars will
enter streets from lanes and cross streets without caution if they are on
the right and have the right-of-way.
The use of seatbelts for the front seats of the car is mandatory. Children
under the age of 12 must sit in the rear seat with a hip-belt. From 12
years of age they are allowed to sit in the front seat with the required
belt.
Telephone Nos. of Dutch automobile associations:
ANWB touring club
26.44.26.
Headoffice The Hague, Wassenaarseweg 220, available day and night
for information by telephone.
KNAC
90.51.58.
ANWB/Eme rgency Road Service (for Hague city)
63.69.68.
ANWB/Traffic Information
31.31.31.
The ANWB office offers valuable emergency road service in the NL and Europe.
It also stocks excellent road maps for the NL and Europe (plus special routes
through each province of The Netherlands, including alternative ones or
cyclists), and other useful items for drivers.
WARNING: The Netherlands Police are authorized to take severe measures
against anyone driving under the influence of liquor. If the police stop you
for an alcohol consumption check and you do not have diplomatic status, you
may be required to breathe through a glass tube into a small balloon. If the
yellow grains in the tube turn green, you may be taken to the police station
for a second breath test, and, if necessary, a blood test will be done. Any
percentage of alcohol in the blood higher than 0.5 "pro mile" is sufficient to
cause the contents of the tube to turn green. Officers with a diplomatic
title who are included in the Diplomatic List for The Netherlands may refuse
to take the test. If you are charged with a traffic violation - parking,
speeding - you are expected to pay the fine. This applies to diplomats as well
as other categories of employees and dependents.
- 17-
ENTERTAINMENT
The "WEEK PROGRAMMA" gives schedules for the movies, church, services, trips,
etc. in the Wednesday issue of local newspapers and can be purchased from
local bookstalls in The Hague.
The Netherlands National Tourist Office (VVV) will furnish information on
special events throughout The Netherlands, the opening hours of museums,
exhibitions, flower shows, etc. The VVV has various tourist guides available
for sale. Some brochures are furnished free. The VVV also issues a monthly
Tourist Info Brochure in English on all above mentioned actitivities.
Details on towns in The Netherlands should be obtained from their local VVV's.
Info on theatre, concerts and events can be obtained via the VVV, 54.62.00.
In addition tickets can be ordered from the VVV, not merely for performances
in The Hague/Scheveningen, but also Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Haarlem, Delft etc.
The VVV offices in The Hague and Scheveningen are located at:
Gevers Deynootweg 126
Scheveningen
Tel. 54.62.00
Open: April 1 - Oct. 1, Mon.-Sat. 9 AM - 8 PM, Sun. 10 AM - 5 PM;
Oct. 1 - Apr. 1, Mon.-Sat. 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday closed.
Kon Julianaplein 30
(Next to Central Station)
546200
Open: April 1 - Oct. 1, Mon.-Sat. 9 AM - 8 PM, Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM;
Oct. 1 - Apr. 1, Mon.-Sat. 9 AM - 6 PM, Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM.
Museum Card - - With a Museum Card, you are given free entry to a large number
of museums throughout the year. At the moment, they number 300. The cost of
a museumcard is F. 7.50 for those under 26 years of age, F 20.-- for those
aged between 26 and 64 and F. 12.50 for the 'over-65 pass,' and foreigners
with a 'senior-pass.' The card is obtainable from the VVV-offices and most of
the museums themselves.
- 18--
PLACES OF INTEREST TO VISITORS
THE HAGUE
A charming village grown into a beautiful town, not the capital, (which is
Amsterdam), but the seat of the Government where the Parliament and the
Ministries are located.
Mauritshuis The Royal cabinet of paintings - The Mauritshuis, next to the
Binnehof, has in its collection paintings of Rembrandt, Jan Steen, Vermeer,
Frans Hals, Ruisdael, and other famous Dutch painters. The museum was
reopened in 1987 after a complete restoration. It is open from Tuesday to
Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and on Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM. Telephone
469244. It is located at Korte Vijverberg 8 in The Hague.
The Hague Municipal Museum Variegated collections include: glass and pottery
from islamic countries and NL, Hague silverware, 20th century design,
paintings and sculptures from 19th century, including works of The Hague
School and Piet Mondrian, and musical instruments.
The Dutch Costume Museum is housed in the municipal museum since 1985.
Open: Tue. thru Sat. 10 AM -- 5 PM, Sundays and holidays 1 PM - 5 PM.
Stadhouderslaan 41, Tel. 51.41.81. Tram 10, Bus 4, 14.
Museon - Museum showing new collection on education OPENS Spring 1986.
The opening of " Museon" marks the completion of a unique project in The Hague
- three major attractions of national significance, are then located right
next to another: The Municipal Museum, the Museon, and the Omniversum.
The permanent exhibits at the new building are titled: earth, our home, and
between man and nebula. The visitor is told a fascinating story; the
origin and evolution of our planet; faraway countries, the attainments of
science and technology. Opening hours will be from: Tue. thru Sat. 10 AM
- 5 PM, Sundays and holidays 1 PM - 5 PM. Address: Stadhouderslaan 41,
tel. 51.41.81. Tram 10; Bus 4, 14.
Omniversum Europe's first space theatre, a superlarge screen dome projection
(840 m2) and the formidable sound of 40 speakers. Open daily. Shows start at
2,3 and 4 PM, and 7,8 and 9 PM. During holidays every hour, on the hour from
11 AM - 9 PM. Address: Pres. Kennedylaan 5 (near the Municipal Museum) tel.
54.54.54.
The Hague Peace Palace An ornate building, constructed with funds donated by
Andrew Carnegie and inaugurated in 1913, which houses the International Court
of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration, the International Law
Academy and a library. Tours at 10 and 11 AM, noon, 2 and 3 PM and from June
1 untill Sept. 1 also at 4 PM. Sat. and Sunday only for groups upon request
(min. 20 p.). Open: Mon.-Fri. 10 AM - noon / 2 - 4 PM.
Address Camegieplein 2, tel.: 46.96.80. Tram 7, 8 Bus: 4, 13.
For further sights please refer to the brochure enclosed in your Welcome Kit.
- 19--
DELFT
VVV Delft, Markt 85, 2611 GS Delft, Tel. 015-12.60.00.
Monday to Saturday from 9 AM to 8 PM; Sunday 12 noon to 5 PM.
October 1 - April 1; Monday to Friday 9 AM - 6 PM; Saturday 10 AM - 5 PM.
An information booklet obtainable at the VVV containing Hotels, city-map,
restaurants/eating houses/coffee-shops, a walking tour etc., shops and
entertainment for F. 2.--.
Founded in the 12th century, Delft was virtually destroyed by an explosion in
1654, and then rebuilt--a fact which gives it a remarkable unity of style.
Long famous for its earthenware, it is now a center of scientific research.
Market Place
A very practical place to start, since the VVV office is also located here.
At this central square you can clearly observe the New Church (early 15th
century) at one end, and the Town Hall (17th century) at the other.
In the middle, a statue is placed of Hugo Grotius or Hugo de Groot, a local
symbol of justice.
Nieuwe Kerk (New Church)
An early 15th century gothic church (Protestant) containing the mausoleum of
William I [the Silent] (carved in 1614), and the burial vault of the Dutch
Royal Family, the House of Orange. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday
morning a presentation of the carrillion (48 bells) is given.
Oude Delft (Old Delft) Canal
Attractive, tree-lined canal, crossed by donkey-backed bridges and flanked by
old buildings of elegant facade.
Prinsenhof Museum
A convent before becoming (in 1583) the residence of William the Silent, The
Prinsenhof is now a museum featuring relics of the 80 Years' War (1568 -
1648), and a collection of paintings of members of the Royal Family
(Orange-Nassau collection). It is the very building were William was later
assassinated in 1584. Every autumn an Old Art and Antique Fair is held at the
Agathaplein. Open: Tuesday-Saturday from 10 AM - 5 PM, Sundays and National
holidays 1 PM - 5 PM. Closed on Monday.
Oude Kerk (Old Church)
Situated directly accross from the Prinsenhof. In the church historical
figures are buried, such as the naval heroes Maerten Tromp and Piet Hein and a
memorial on naturalist Antonie van Leeuwenhoek and stained glass windows can
be admired. In the imposing, clearly slanting tower (13th century) hangs an
enormous clock, de Bourdon, which is only rung on very special occasions, such
as during the funeral of Princess Wilhelmina in 1962. Open: April 1 - October
1, Monday-Saturday from 12 noon to 4 PM.
- 20-
Shopping and markets in Delft
Not only a great variety of antique and curio-shops, speciality shops, and
old-fashioned baker's shops e.g. Roodenrijs, Brabantse Turfmarkt 81, where you
will find Delft's cream cakes 'Jan Hagel' or ask for 'salt-cakes' as a
souvenir. Or try Bierhuizen's bakery at Langendijk 6, with the 'poffer', a
fancy round bread with various fillings), but especially the Thursday Market
Day in worth-while. A large general market is held in the very heart of the
town, on the market-place, from 9 AM to 5 PM. Don't miss the flower market
held at the same time on the Hippolytusbuurt, along the canal.
On Saturdays, there is a fruit and vegetable market on the Brabantse
Turfmarkt. Shops are closed on Monday mornings.
Delft ware - The history of Delft ware goes back to its country of origin,
China. Artistically decorated porcelain was brought into this country from
China on United East Indian Company ships. Imitating the multi-coloured
Chinese and Japanese porcelain varieties, Delft ware was produced not only in
blue, but also in other colors. In the middle of the 17th century, Delft alone
had more than 30 potteries. Over the years most of them have ceased their
activities and had to close down.
The Delft-ware potteries that still carry on the old trade are:
1. De Porceleyne Fles. (since 1653) Rotterdamseweg 196. Tel. 015-56.02.34.
Bluetique, with demonstrations of paintings. Open: April 1 - September 30,
Monday-Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM, Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM; October 1 -
March 31 Monday-Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM.
2. De Delftse Pauw. Delftweg 133. Tel. 015-12.47.43. Delfts Blue Factory.
Open: April 1 - September 30, daily (including weekends) 9 AM - 4 PM. October
1 - March 31, Monday-Friday 9 AM - 4 PM. Weekends from 11 AM to 1 PM.
3. Atelier de Candelaer. Kerkstraat 13. Delfts Blue Manufacturer. Open: April
1 - September 30, Monday-Saturday 8:30 AM-6:00 PM. Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM.
October 1 - March 31, Tuesday-Saturday 9 AM-12:30 PM/1:30 PM to 6 PM.
ROTTERDAM
VVV Tourist Information address: Stadhuisplein 19, Tel. 010-13.60.00
(for telephone information).
Open: Apr.-Sep.: Mon. to Sat. 9 AM - 6 PM, Fri. 9 AM - 9 PM, Sunday
10 AM - 6 PM.
Oct.-March: Mon. to Sat. 9 AM-6 PM, fri 9 AM - 9 PM. Closed on Sunday.
Tram: 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. Underground: Stadhuis, Bus: 38,45,49.
A port of major importance for centuries, Rotterdam was bombed by the Germans
in 1940 and all but destroyed. An allied bombing in 1943 virtually completed
the job. The 30,000 buildings destroyed have since been replaced by a modern
city. The rebuilt and extended port rivals all others in the world, including
New York.
Boymans-van Beuningen Museum
One of the Fine Arts Museums of the world with paintings by such artists as
van Eyck, Breughel, Frans Hals, Rubens, Titian, Monet, van Gogh and Picasso,
and sculpture by Rodin and Degas. Address: Mathenesserlaan 18-20.
Tel. 020-36.05.00. Tram 5. Underground: Eendrachtsplein.
- 21-
Euromast A tower situated near the port of Rotterdam. Its top affords a
magnificent view of the city and the port. Also contains a restaurant with
equal views. Euromast and Spacetower are opened daily March 15- Oct. 15, from
9 AM - 10 PM; Euromast Oct. 15 - March 15, from 9 AM - 6 PM, and Space-Tower
11 AM - 4 PM. Entrance adults: 7.50. Children u/i 14: 3.75.
Extra charge Spacetower: Dfl. 3.00 and 2.00 respectively.
Address: Parkhaven 20, Tel. : 010-36.48.11.
Shopping Rotterdam: In Rotterdam shops are open Mondays, from 1 PM to 5:30
PM, Tuesdays thru Thursday from 9 AM to 5:30 PM, Fridays from 9 AM to 9 PM,
and Saturdays from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Lijnbaan Arcade A partly roofed shopping centre and pedestrian precinct of
unique attractiveness with many fine shops - a short walk from the Rotterdam
Hilton Hotel and Central Station.
Binnenwegplein is surrounded by department stores, shops and offices, and
situated at the extension of the Lijnbaan. Tram no. 3.
Historical Holland Excursion - from June 5 thru Aug. 28, every Wednesday at
9 AM. Duration approx. 6 1/2 hrs. A tour along historical spots and towns
(a.o. the silvertown Schoonhoven and a cheesefarm), windmills and old crafts.
Departure from R'dam VVV office, Stadhuisplein. Price F. 53.50 p.p. including
lunch and visit to cheesefarm and windmill.
LEIDEN
VVV Office: Stationplein 210, 2312 AR Tel. 071-146846.
Open: April 1 - September 1, Monday-Friday 9 AM - 7 PM, Saturday 9 AM - 6 PM
and Sunday 10 AM - 2 PM. September 1 - April 1: Monday-Friday 9 AM - 5:30 and
Saturday 10 AM - 4 PM.
The intellectual capital of Holland, Leiden was developed from a village
located at the foot of a 9th century fortress. Its world-famous University
was established in 1574.
There are a large number of monuments, patrician houses, museums, churches and
parks. Nearly all are situated in the center, within easy reach from train and
bus station.
A.o.: University History Museum, Botanical Garden of the University (founded
in 1585 and among the oldest in the world), Netherlands Army Museum "General
Hoefer," Pilgrim Fathers Documents Center (contains copies of records relating
to the Pilgrim Fathers, who, after 11 years residence in Leiden sailed on the
'Mayflower' to America). Not even to mention the National Museum of Geology
and Mineralogy, and the National Museum of Antiquities and a Municipal Museum
'De Lakenhal' with paintings (Rembrandt, Jan Steen) silver and period rooms.
A leaflet "Leiden Museumstad" at the VVV will give full info on opening
times, addresses etc.
Rapenburg Canal
The most attractive canal in Leiden, crossed by bridges of three arches,
tree-lined and bordered by beautiful houses.
- 22-
Pieterskerk (Pilgrim Church)
An enormous Gothic church (Protestant) which the Pilgrms visited for a while
before making their way to the New World. Thanksgiving services for the
American community in The Netherlands are held each year in this church. Tel.
071-12.43.19.
Shopping and markets
The shoppping center in the city center consists of the Breestraat, the
Haarlemmerstraat and immediate area. Most shops are open Monday till Friday 9
AM - 6 PM, Saturday 9 AM - 5 PM. Opening times are shown on each shop door.
Late night shopping Thursday till 9 PM. Markets in the center of the city on
Wednesday and Saturday 9 AM - 5 PM. The 'Vijf Mei-plein," Tuesday 9 AM - 2
PM. Cattle market in the "Groenoordhaller" Monday and Tuesday 7 AM - 11 AM.
AMSTERDAM
VVV Tourist Information address: Stationsplein 10, Tel.: 020-26.64.44.
Open Easter till Sept. 30: Mon.-Sun. 8:45-11 PM.
-Oct. 1 till Easter: Mon.- Sat. 9 AM - 7 PM. Sun. 10 AM -1.30 PM and from
2.30 PM - 5.30 PM.
For telephone information, Tel.: 020-26.44.44.
-Easter till Sept. 30: Mon.-Sat. 8:45 AM - 5 PM.
-Oct. 1 till Easter Mon.-Sat. 9 AM - 5 PM.
After 5 PM and Sunday Tel.: 020 - 22.10.16.
Capital of The Netherlands and one of its principal cities. Intellectual and
artistic center, Amsterdam is also a world-important place of business,
finance, industry and air travel.
Canals
Constructed during Amsterdam's "Golden Age" in the 17th century, its canals
retain the charm of that period while serving modern needs.
Addresses for canal boat-trip: Holland International: Pr. Hendrikkade, Tel.
020-22.77.88, or Rederij Kooy: Rokin near Spui, Tel. 020-23.38.10.
Rijksmuseum (National Museum)
Founded by Louis Bonaparte in 1808, now housed in a building in the Dutch
Renaissance style built in 1876, the collection permits the viewer to trace
the development of Dutch art until its flowering in the 17th century. The
collection is dominated by Rembrandt (a.o. The Night Watch) , and supported by
Vermeer and other Dutch artists. Address: Stadhouderskade 42. Tel.:
020-73.21.21. Tram: 1, 2, 5, 16, 24, 25.
Rijksmuseum van Gogh (National van Gogh Museum)
This museum is devoted mainly to the works of van Gogh, and contains more than
200 paintings and 400 drawings by this great artist. There are also works by
his friends and contemporaries like Manet, Gauguin and Toulouse-Lautrec.
Address: Paulus Potterstraat 7-11, tel.: 020-76.48.81. Tram: 2, 5, 16.
- 23- -
TRAM AND BUS IN AMSTERDAM
Planning to stay the whole day in Amsterdam? Then buy a dayticket. For (appr.)
F. 7.40 you can ride on all Amsterdam tram, bus or metro lines for one day and
the following night. Tram and bus drivers sell these tickets at the front
door. In the metro stations you can get them from the automatic ticket
dispenser. They can also be purchased at the GVB ticket booth in front of the
Central Station, and at the GVB Central Office at Stadhouderskade 1 (near
Leidseplein).
Two and three-day tickets are also available, but they can only be obtained at
the GVB ticket booth in front of the Central Station and at the GVB Central
Office. A 2-day ticket costs F. 10.--, a 3-day ticket F. 12.25.
Pls. remember to have your ticket stamped for the first trip in the yellow
stamping machine in trams or by the driver in buses. Unstamped tickets are
not valid.
GVB office in front of Central Station (Stationsplein) is open from 7 AM - 10
PM (Saturday and Sunday: 8 AM - 10 PM).
CHURCH SERVICES
The American Protestant Church of The Hague
Esther de Boer-van Rijklaan 20, 2597 TJ The Hague - tel. 24.44.90
Sunday Worship: 09:15 and 11:15 AM
Sunday Classes: 10:15 AM
Nursery facilities are provided for children below kindergarten age.
In summer months call for a revised schedule (June 16 to Sept. 1, 10:00 AM).
The English Speaking International Roman Catholic Parish of The Hague
Aloysius College, Oostduinlaan 50, The Hague.
Saturdays: Mass in Aloysius College at 6 PM.
Sundays : Mass in Aloysius College at 10 AM.
Confessions before each Mass.
Parish House, Ruychrocklaan 126, 2597 ES The Hague.
Tel. 28.08.16.
Christian Science Church, First Church of Christ, Scientist, The Hague
Andries Bickerweg 1, 2517 JP The Hague, tel. 63.66.52.
Sunday Service in English: 11:15 AM (nursery provided).
Combined English/Dutch Testimony Meeting every Wednesday: 8 PM
A reading room where the Christian Science Monitor is for sale, is located at
Laan van Meerdervoort 199 (near Reinkestraat corner), The Hague,
tel. 45.67.81.; weekly hours are 10 AM to 16:30 PM.
English and American Episcopal Church (The Church of St. John & St.Philip)
Ary van der Spuyweg 1, The Hague, tel. 55.53.59.
Chaplain: Rev. Canon Alan Lindsay
Sunday Holy Communion: 8:30 PM
Sunday Morning Service, Sunday School and Creche in the British School,
10:15 AM at Jan van Hooflaan 3, Voorschoten.
Sunday Evening Service: 5 PM.
Wednesday Holy Communion: 12:30 PM.
- 24 -
Liberal Jewish Congregation
Prinsessegracht 26, 2514 AP The Hague, tel. 65.68.93
Synagogue: Jan Evertstraat 7, The Hague (near American Embassy)
Services: First Friday each month - night service at 8 PM.
All other Friday night services at 6 PM.
Saturday morning Shabbat-service at 10:00 AM.
Russian Orthodox Church
le Sweelinckstraat 54, The Hague, tel. 65.34.97
Slavonic Vespers & Martins - 19:30 PM Saturday
Divine Liturgy - 10:30 AM Sunday
Trinity Baptist Church
Hofcampweg 3, Wassenaar, Tel. 01751-14734.
Christian Evangelican Church
Holiday Inn, Leiden. Haagse Schouwburgweg 10, Tel. 071-769310.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Mormon)
Leersumstraat 11 & 13, The Hague, tel. 293531
Sacrament Meeting:
11:20 AM
Fast & Testimony:
11:20 AM - first Sunday of the month
Relief Society:
9:30 AM Sunday
Primary:
9:30 AM Sunday
Meeting for young men and women:
19:30 Friday evenings
Services are in Dutch. There is a translating system for English-speaking
people.
- 25- -
HOW TO FIND BROADCASTS IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE
LISTING OF AFN AND BBC WAVE LENGTHS
WAVE LENGTHS
RADIO NETWORK
METER BANDS
KILOCYCLES (kHz)
AFN Schinnen FM
89.15 MHz
Soesterberg FM
103.4
MHz
Volkel FM
93.6
MHz
Maastricht FM
93.4
MHz
BBC World Service
464
m
648
50.21 m
5875
Radio 1
285
m
1053
275
m
1089
Radio 2
433
m
693
330
m
909
Radio 2 FM Wrotham
89.1
MHz
Tacolneston
91.9
1MHz
Radio 3
247
m
1215
Radio 3 FM Wrotham
91.3
MHz
Tacolneston
91.9
MHz
Radio 4
1500
m
200
Radio 4 FM Wrotham
93.5
MHz
Tacolneston
94.1
MHz
- 26 -
HOW TO FIND BROADCASTS IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE
BBC WORLD SERVICE (All Times GMT)
World News
Broadcasts 17 times a day at:
00:00 02:00 03:00 04:00 05:00 06:00 07:00 08:00 09:00
11:00 13:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 20:00 22:00 23:00.
Newsdesk
A half hour programme including World News, dispatches
from overseas and British based correspondents and a
Press Review. Daily at 04:00 and 06:00.
Twenty-Four Hours
Analysis of the main news of the day with review of
British Press. Monday to Friday 05:09, 07:09, 13:09,
20:09.
Commentary
Background to the news from a range of specialists.
Daily 16:09, 23:09, Saturday and Sunday 13:09, 20:09.
Radio Newsreel
News of events as they happen and despatches from BBC
correspondents over the world. Daily 00:15, 12:00 (not
Sunday), 15:00, 18:15.
New Ideas
A radio shop-window for British industry, news of the
latest products and inventions of interest to the
householder and small business. Saturday 11:15 (repeated
22:30), Sunday 04:45, Friday 16:35.
Business Matters
Weekly survey of commercial and financial news. Thursday
11:30 (repeated 21:30), Friday 03:30.
Financial News
including news of commodity prices and significant moves
in currency and stock markets. Monday to Friday 22:30
(repeated Tuesday to Saturday 04:45, 09:30).
Stock Market Report
Monday to Friday 19:39.
Recommended frequencies for Western Europe: 648KHz and 463M Medium Wave.
5.975, 6.05, 7.12, 7.185, 7.255, 9.41, 9.75, 12.095 and 15.07 Mhz in the
49, 41, 31, 25, and 19 metre bands.
Full program and frequency information available from BBC External
Publicity, Bush House, London, WC2B 4 PH.
- 27- -
BRIEF OUTLINE OF U.S. MISSION FUNCTIONS AND OPERATIONS
The American Embassy in The Hague is a medium-sized Western European post.
The American diplomatic mission in the Netherlands employs 254 people (140
U.S. citizens and 113 non-Americans). The sections of the mission are:
Executive Section (EXO)
This section contains the Ambassador and the Deputy Chief of Mission, their
secretaries and two non-American employees, a protocol assistant and the
ambassador's driver. The section is responsible for the management and
coordination of all American federal government employees in the
Netherlands who are not under a U.S. military theater commander.
Administrative Section (ADMIN)
This section is responsible for liaison with Dutch offices on operational
problems of the mission and for the provision of in-house support
services. It contains 12 sub-units.
APO - U.S. military post office
B&F - cashier, budget, all payments
CPU (also known as C&R). - code room, communications and central files
Computer Center - unclassified word processing and data processing
Community Liaison Office (CLO) - is concerned with the care and welfare of
embassy employees and their families
General Services Office (GSO) - miscellaneous purchasing and all
miscellaneous administrative tasks
-- Maintenance - carpenters, electricians, etc.
-- Motor Pool - operates an inter-agency motor
pool and a small automobile servicing shop in
the basement of the chancery
-- Mailroom - unclassified mail
is
Marine Security Guards (MSG) - under the command of a Staff Sgt., the six
U.S. Marines are responsible for providing 24-hour-a-day security at the
chancery
Personnel - in-house personnel services
Security - headed by the Regional Security Officer and responsible for
coordinating all in-house elements involved in providing for the security
of the mission and mission personnel.
- 28
Agriculture Section (AGRA or AGRI)
This section is staffed by U.S. Department of Agriculture Foreign
Agricultural Service (FAS) employees and is responsible for dealing with
the Dutch Government on agricultural trade questions, collecting
agricultural intelligence and promoting the export of U.S. agricultural
products.
Consulate General, Amsterdam (ADAM or ConGen or CG)
The American Consulate General at Amsterdam (38 miles from The Hague) is an
integral element of the mission and is staffed mainly by U.S. Department of
State employees. It performs all consular services for which the mission
is responsible, such as issuing U.S. visas to Dutch travelers to the U.S.,
issuing passports to American citizens, etc.
Commercial Section (COML or FCS)
This section is staffed by employees of the U.S. Department of Commerce
(FCS) and is responsible for promoting sales of all non-agricultural U.S.
exports to the Netherlands. Four employees of this section are housed in
the American Consulate General in Amsterdam.
Customs Attache's Office (CUST)
This section is staffed by employees of the U.S. Department of the Treasury
and is responsible for collaboration with the Dutch authorities in such
areas as blocking the diversion of U.S.-made strategic goods to the Eastern
Bloc and for inhibiting the flow of child pornography into the U.S.
Defense Attache's Office (DAO or DATT)
This section contains U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force attaches and is
responsible for collecting military intelligence and for liaison with Dutch
military intelligence authorities.
Office of Defense Cooperation (ODC)
This section is staffed by members of all three U.S. armed services. It is
responsible for the security assistance program with the Netherlands in the
NATO military framework and for fostering armaments cooperation and defense
industrial cooperation between the Netherlands and the U.S.
Drug Enforcement (DEA)
This section is staffed by employees of the U.S. Department of Justice and
is responsible for cooperating with Dutch law enforcement officials in the
struggle to reduce the flow of narcotics into the U.S.
Economic Section (ECON)
This section is staffed by employees of the Department of State and carries
the main burden of coordinating all aspects of U.S. economic policy in the
Netherlands. The section also includes the labor attache (LABATT), who is
responsible for gathering information on the Dutch labor scene and for
representing U.S. international labor interests to the Dutch government and
labor movement.
Mission Plans & Program (MPP)
This section, staffed by the Department of State, carries out specialized
functions, many of them ad hoc, for the executive section, such as
coordination with various U.S. military organizations in the Netherlands;
Middle East and other third world issues and developments, etc.
Political Section (POL)
This section is staffed by officers of the Department of State and is
responsible for all international political relations, following the Dutch
domestic political scene and following the crucial political aspects of our
military relations with the Netherlands, particularly on arms control
questions and NATO policy questions.
Office of the Agent of the United States to the Iran - U.S. Claims Tribunal
(USIR)
This section is staffed by lawyers from the Department of State and exists
to present U.S. interests before the U.S.-Iranian Claims Tribunal.
United States Information Service (USIS)
This section is staffed by officers from the U.S. Information Agency and is
responsible for all embassy relations with the media, the Dutch cultural
world, and the Dutch world of education.
U.S. Travel and Tourism Administration (USTTA)
This unit is entirely housed inside the American Consulate General in
Amsterdam and is staffed by employees of the U.S. Department of Commerce.
It promotes Dutch tourism to the U.S.
- 30.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA) AGENCIES LOCATED OUTSIDE THE CHANCERY
'Agricultural Research Service (ARS)
ARS has its European Market Research Laboratory in Rotterdam. It employs 2
Americans and 3 foreign nationals there who perform research aimed at
improving grading, processing, packaging and shipping methods used for U.S.
products exported to the EC. ARS also has one American stationed at the
Agricultural University in Wageningen who acts as a liaison for the exchange
of agricultural research between the U.S. and various European countries.
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
APHIS has a regional office in The Hague which covers plant protection and
quarantine (PPQ) issues in Europe, the Middle East and African countries,
including Israel and South Africa. APHIS currently has a staff of four
Americans. The salaries, housing expenses and benefits of these employees are
at least partially paid by the countries in which they pre-clear, for disease
and insect control, horticultural shipments to the United States. For
example, APHIS personnel pre-clear Dutch flower bulb exports to the United
States.
Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
FSIS has one inspector based in The Hague. He monitors the inspection systems
in the Benelux countries, certain Eastern European countries, and Iceland to
ensure that their meat exports to the United States conform to our import
standards.
SPECIAL U.S. MILITARY UNITS WITHIN THE U.S. DIPLOMATIC MISSION
TO THE NETHERLANDS
U.S. Army Veterinary Detachment Netherlands Division (VET DET or VETS or
USAMEDCOM)
The Netherlands Detachment of the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps is one of six in
Europe whose main purpose is to ensure the wholesomeness and quality of food
bought by the U.S. military from European suppliers.
Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial
American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC)
The American Military Cemetery in the Netherlands is in Margraten, near
Maastricht, in the province of Limburg -- located 150 miles from The Hague.
There are some 8300 Americans buried in this cemetery, most of whom died while
engaged in the airborne and ground operations to liberate the eastern
Netherlands.
U.S. Research and Development Coordinator
for the SHAPE Technical Center (USRADCO)
The SHAPE Technical Center (STC) is an international (NATO) organization, not
a U.S. government installation. USRADCO, located inside the SHAPE Technical
Center, is a small U.S. government organization and represents the U.S. in the
STC. USRADCO also recruits and administratively supports the two dozen U.S.
scientific and technical personnel on loan to STC.
Defense Subsistance Office (DSO)
A civilian American stationed in Rijswijk (near The Hague) represents the
commodity contracting officer of the U.S. Defense Subsistence Region Europe
(DSRE) for purchases by the U.S. military of food and subsistence commodities
from the Netherlands, Luxembourg, northern France, northern West Germany, the
United Kingdom and Ireland.
PRINCIPAL U.S. MILITARY UNITS IN THE NETHERLANDS
OUTSIDE PURVIEW OF U.S. DIPLOMATIC MISSION
Soesterberg
The Dutch Air Force Base at Soesterberg, near Amersfoort in the center of the
Netherlands, hosts the biggest U.S. military presence in the country, the U.S.
Air Force's 32nd Tactical Fighter Squadron, located at Camp New Amsterdam.
Brunssum and Schinnen (southern Limburg)
The United States has approximately 150 officers and 500 other ranks assigned
to NATO's AFCENT HQ (headquarters for Allied Forces Central Europe) along with
nearly 1000 dependents in Brunssum, in Limburg and a much smaller presence
connected with the U.S. participation in AFCENT in nearby Schinnen.
Rotterdam
The Military Traffic Management Command/Transportation Terminal Command Europe
and other associated transportation offices are involved in the transport of
Department of Defense cargo and personnel both in peace time and in time of
war. Located in Capelle a/d IJseel, at the harbor of Rotterdam, these units
employ a total of 26 officers, 53 enlisted personnel and 17 civilians.
Coevorden
The U.S. Army's Combat Equipment Battalion Northwest, the unit overseeing four
war reserve material sites located throughout the Netherlands, is located in
Coevorden.
- 32--
12
form of stereotype images such as the relationship to the water, the specializa-
tion in certain horticultural and agricultural products, the look of the capital city,
and the general character of the people.
MR. SUTTON, I
HOWEVER, I AM A
MUST TELL YOU THAT
AS YOU KNOW, I BELIEVE
REAUSTIC MAN. I REALIZE
YES, SIR.
IT IS MY HOPE THAT
THE AMERICAN PEOPLE
THAT OTHER PEOPLES OF
AM I
ONLY THE
MY VISION FOR AMER-
ARE FILLED WITH LOVE
THE WORLD ARE NOT ALL
RIGHT?
DUTCH.
ICA CAN BECOME A
AND DECENCY AND
NECESSARILY COMPASSION-
GLOBAL ONE
COMPASSION..
ATE AND GOOD
AND LOVING.
9-10
The Dutch image in the world?
The Dutch themselves cannot escape responsibility for the perpetuation of a cer-
tain amount of this. On the one hand is the tourist and public-relations industry
which tends to reinforce the favorite images and clichés, not even shrinking from
putting up a monument to the boy who performed the absurdly impossible feat of
putting a finger in the dike. On the other hand is the unfortunately pervasive atti-
tude in the Netherlands that the country, social customs and language are all pri-
vate tribal matters that foreigners cannot be expected to be seriously interested
in. Typically the Dutch expect to do the adapting to outsiders and, with an im-
plicit assumption of the lack of importance of the Netherlands on the international
scene, are not strong in promoting insight into the country and its society that
goes much beyond the images already there.
The Netherlands presents us with more than one irony. One is that the same
country that offers the world a model of interacting organization and planning
for the future should present itself toward the outside mainly in the form of im-
ages from a bygone era. Another is that the same country that information about
seems so scanty should in reality be one of the most information-minded socie-
ties in the world. The quantity of published and regularly updated material on the
Netherlands in popular and specialized periodicals, professional journals, bro-
chures and books is safely termed overwhelming, and even if all the Dutch-lan-
guage material is set aside as for practical purposes inaccessible, the quantity in
English is still very large. The first, and probably most fundamental, purpose of
the exploration to follow will be to thread the way carefully through some of the
Two Americans in
Two Dutch Republics
The Adamses, Father and Son
R. R. PALMER
O
N April 19, 1782, the States General formally received John
Adams as minister plenipotentiary from the United States. A
reception by the Stadtholder, William V, soon followed, and a treaty
between these two "powers of the earth," to use a phrase from the
American Declaration of Independence, was signed the following
October. It is not a treaty of military alliance, such as the United
States signed with France in 1778. It is what diplomats call a treaty of
amity and commerce. It is a long document, in twenty-nine articles.
All the articles but one pertain to trade, merchant shipping, guarantees
to seamen, and such matters. But the first article states that "there
shall be a stable, inviolable and universal peace and sincere friendship
between their High Mightinesses the States General of the United
Provinces and the United States of America." Time has rendered many
of the commercial provisions obsolete, and their High Mightinesses
long ago disappeared, but the friendship remains; it has indeed been
one of the least troubled of any between two peoples, and we hope and
expect that it will continue to be so.
Except for France, the Dutch government was the first in the
world to recognize the United States. Last year, on a brief visit to
Morocco, I learned that this honor is claimed for the Sultan of
Morocco, but a little research has assured me that the priority of the
Dutch treaty cannot be successfully challenged, for one article of
the Dutch-American agreement provided for Dutch assistance to the
Americans in negotiations with Morocco and the Barbary states, and
the American treaty with Morocco was signed in 1787.
It is still a question whether the Dutch were a little slow in not
extending recognition until six years after the Declaration of Inde-
pendence. Why did they wait until after the battle of Yorktown and
[3]
From: A Bilateral Bicentennial: a History of Dutch-American
Relations, 1782-1982.' 11
Herbert H. Rowen
231
grandeur lingered, little changed from the sixteenth and seventeenth
centuries because modernity had passed it by. They looked in at the
e-
Prinsenhof, displayed their knowledge of history when they saw the
i-
holes made by Balthasar Gérard's bullets, and sighed at the fate of
heroic William the Silent. They noticed that the canals in Delft did
not smell, or at least they remembered that they didn't when they
at
encountered the evil-smelling grachten of other towns. But they stayed
in Delft only for a few hours.
They stayed longer, usually for several days, at The Hague a few
miles on. If they called it the "seat of government" and not the
d
"capital," we may be sure that they were consulting their guidebooks
St
sedulously, for what American to this day can conceive of a capital
n
that is not the seat of government? They found The Hague very much
to their taste. It was "elegant" and "charming"-the words recur
constantly, and though we may hear the echo of the guidebooks in
these words, they obviously spoke the viewers' admiration. Men of
IS
property although all good republicans, these tourists observed the
y
good taste of the homes of diplomats and nobility which clustered
about the royal court. They rode out to Huis ten Bosch, were
enraptured by its paintings, and thought it quite a nice place for a
S
Queen to live in, not too royal, as it were. One visitor was especially
pleased to see in the Queen's apartment, open to tourists while she was
away, a triumph of American industrial ingenuity-a Singer sewing
machine, with all the signs of being much used.
The visitors took in the obligatory Mauritshuis museum, which
they usually called the "national gallery." Some were thankful for its
humane dimensions, especially so, no doubt, if they had already trod
the interminable if glorious longueurs of the Louvre. Two pictures
impressed them most of all, Paul Potter's "The Young Bull" and
Rembrandt's "Anatomy Lesson." The meticulous naturalism of Potter's
brush and the directness of his subject made it a work of art after
their own hearts, and they enjoyed too the good-natured jokes they
could make about the danger of wearing red while viewing it. They
were more strained by the shocking power of Rembrandt's painting,
but were as often repelled as fascinated. It was realistic enough to gain
their respect, but they wanted art that pleased without shattering their
complacency. The other painters they mention are pretty much those
we would expect-usually the lesser lights of the Golden Age by our
judgment, but occasionally Hals and Steen, never Vermeer until the
end of the century and seldom even thereafter. All in all, there is
something paradoxical in the attitude of these visitors: they repeat
incessantly that seeing "the pictures" was one of the principal reasons
why they had come from afar to this little country, yet it is clear that
they enjoyed only the simplest kind of art. To be able to say that they
From "American Travelers in Holland through Two Centuries"
by: Herbert H. Rowen: paper in "A Bilateral Bicentennial, a
History of Dutch American Relations, 1782-1982."
4
A BILATERAL BICENTENNIAL
e could visit Czar Peter's little house. Those who went on to
signed simply
arken and Volendam found tourist traps, all the quaintness con-
that were to fol
idated and commercialized with a primitive Disneyification.
Many of the ele
Returning to Amsterdam, they resumed their journey, which was
are already in
W nearing an end. A delightful trip down the Vecht, past the
our while to pic
xuriance of summer homes, to Utrecht. A climb perhaps up the free-
Watson
anding high tower of the cathedral to see far into the distance
"glut." He was
I about, as some had down at Rotterdam; a glance down at the
experienced in
stinctive canals a floor below street level-and that was all. Upstream
with its slack
Germany, stopping at Arnhem perhaps, and admiring its relaxed
sharply aware
r as a resort town for the wealthy of Amsterdam-so like the resort
fishermen's dau
wns with which the tourists were familiar back home. And then,
clothes but tow
ist Nijmegen, out of the Netherlands.
by the girls' "I
Thus far we have merged into a single picture the reactions of
and habit may
umerous writers, taking from each what was common to most, and
Unlike me
aying little attention to the distinctively individual. Reduced to a
an unattached
:W words, it is a picture that is not too complimentary to either side.
while he was
'he Americans for the most part sought the "picturesque" and the
quaint," but not the significant. They did not see that the Dutch
and perhaps
the old man's
ation was slowly moving through the great reorganization of its
of the commo
olitical, social, and economic life in the nineteenth and twentieth
enturies. The Dutch for their part had little concern for these visitors
no great dang
not unwilling
rom afar. Some did go out of their way to be courteous and helpful;
genteel wome
thers, who made their living off foreign gapers, treated Americans
may have gon
they treated all other tourists, milking them of their money. We find
of revelers, in
gnificance only when we move from the run-of-the-mill tourist to
lowed up a
ose who were unusual in some way, either in their personal qualities
with a visit to
knowledge and penetration or because they came on business or for
the city, to be
ewal of family contacts. And then we find unexpected rewards.
of it was all h
Perhaps the liveliest and least inhibited of all the travelers' tales
term for harl
he very first. Elkanah Watson came to Holland in 1784 when he
and sheep are
only twenty-six years of age, but he was already an accomplished
His aesth
eler. An apprentice merchant when he had gone to France in
John Adams,
he had been confirmed there in his American patriotism, his
feast for the
blicanism, and his distaste for the ways of old regime Europe.⁷
soul." Music,
to England after the conclusion of peace, he crossed over to
burghers of
and in May 1784, "without any view of business" but to "rub
the middle 01
lf a little bright among the Mynheers and Mavrouws." Admitting
Music was b
ignorance" of the country and the people, he had hunted the
Chancing int
tores of London for "some good description of that artificial
was fascinate
try," but was astounded to find none factual or thoughtful enough
magnificent
The ten letters written while in Holland the next month,
selves looked
retrospective one from London on his return, provide the main
During
of his rare work, A Tour in Holland in MDCCLXXXIV,
Orangists an
F.D.R. to Queen Wilhelmina at The Hague (letter in F.D.R.L.)
THE WHITE HOUSE,
DEC. 19, 1939
My dear Queen Wilhelmina:
The situation of The Netherlands-the country of my ances-
tors-seems for the time being more secure than when I tele-
graphed you several weeks ago. I can only hope and pray that as
this dreadful war goes on there will be no future crisis which
threatens the independence and the integrity of your nation.
However, none of us can be certain in these days when nor-
mal and friendly international relations are so completely sub-
ject to the whim of small groups of fantastic people to whom
nothing is sacred.
Therefore, I want you to feel wholly free at any moment to
act on the very whole-hearted and sincere desire of my wife and
myself to do anything for your family which may be of assist-
ance to you and yours.
It is natural that both you and I should think much of
our grandchildren and their preservation from the very serious
dangers of modern warfare.
Should you consider it best for them to be away from the
scene of dangers, I can, at a moment's notice, send a cruiser to a
safe point to take them and their attendants on board and bring
them to these comparatively safe shores-and, of course, it would
be delightful also to welcome the Princess Juliana, should she
decide to come with them.
You, my good friend, I know will want to stick by the ship.
We should be delighted to have them with us at the White
House or at our country place on the Hudson River where my
Mother, who is eighty-five years old, would be very happy to
take care of them.
Some day I shall hope to have the great privilege of meeting
you. You do not know it but the only time I have seen you
was when we were both children-and you were driving in one
of the parks at The Hague.
I know you will pardon this typewritten letter but in these
971
modern days my penmanship is not as legible as it was once.
May the New Year bring happier days and greater security
for you and The Netherlands.
Faithfully yours,
F.D.R. to Mrs. J. Borden Harriman in Oslo (letter in F.D.R.L.)
THE WHITE HOUSE,
DEC. 22, 1939
Dear Daisy:
Many thanks for yours of December fourth. I, too, am sorry
that the Nobel Committee made the definite mistake of not
awarding the prize this year.
Yesterday I received the formal notice for recommendations
for next year and I have written the enclosed to the Committee.
Will you be good enough to see that it is duly delivered to
them?
You are certainly in the midst of things in Oslo. The definite
surge of public opinion in favor of Finland and against Russia
over here is amazing and we are literally doing everything we
can without legislation to help the Finns.
As ever yours,
[Enclosed letter follows]:
F.D.R. to the Nobel Committee in Oslo (letter in F.D.R.L.)
THE WHITE HOUSE,
DEC. 22, 1939
Gentlemen:
It is well known to you that on several previous occasions
I have proposed for the Nobel Peace Prize the name of Cordell
Hull, Secretary of State of the United States of America.
At this time I have the honor to renew this recommendation.
For nearly seven years Secretary of State Hull has carried
on with great consistency his twofold efforts to bring about
international relationships, especially among the twenty-one
972
THE
58
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HET LEIDSE STADHUIS
Het monumentale stadhuis van Leiden ligt tussen de Breestraat
en de Vismarkt op de oever van de Rijn. Het Leidse stadhuis
heeft eigenlijk twee gezichten. Aan de Breestraatzijde staat de
oude gevel, ontworpen door Lieven de Key, die rond 1600 werd
gebouwd. Aan de kant van de Vismarkt ligt het 'nieuwe' stadhuis
dat in 1932 werd ontworpen door architekt Blaauw.
De oude en nieuwe gevel zijn de zichtbare getuigen van de
lange geschiedenis van het Leidse stadhuis. Meer over het
stadhuis van Leiden leest u in deze folder.
2
Stadhuis in 1587
gecomendar
anying stoff
foren
De oudste stadhuizen
verkoophal van laken) op de bovenverdieping en de vleeshal
gelijkvloers aangebracht.
Het oude wanthuis werd verkocht en de wantsnijders vonden
Voor zover valt na te gaan had de gemeente Leiden al een
tijdelijk onderdak in het wolhuis. Ook de oude vleeshal werd
stadhuis in 1350. Dat raadhuis was niet meer dan een hal met
verkocht.
een toren. Op de eerste verdieping was een vergaderruimte voor
In 1426 werd op de benedenverdieping van het stadhuis een
de stadsbestuurders. In de nacht van 24 op 25 augustus 1381
kamer gemaakt waar de schepenen in konden vergaderen.
brak er brand uit. Er is geen steen van overgebleven.
Ook voor de vierschaar, de vier burgemeesters, was een vertrek
in het stadhuis aanwezig.
Omstreeks 1410 werd het inmiddels herbouwde stadhuis te klein
en men pakte de vergroting grootscheeps aan.
De instelling van het 'College der Veertigraden' in 1449 maakte
Woonhuizen en/of woonerven werden voor de uitbreiding
dat er meer vergaderruimte nodig was.
aangekocht.
Dit kollege, een voorloper op de huidige gemeenteraad, keek dan
In dit veel grotere gebouw werden het wanthuis (keur- en
ook uit naar uitbreidingsmogelijikheden.
3
Stadhuis omstreeks 1890
Buurman Wermbout Janszoon's huis werd gekocht in 1455 en bij
De 16e eeuw
het stadhuis getrokken. Dit huis is het op de tekening van 1587,
(p. 3), uiterst linkse stuk met de drie ramen dat hoger is dan het
In de jaren na het beleg van 1574 kwam de stad, dankzij de
gedeelte met de gekanteelde borstwering.
textielnijverheid, tot bloei. Het stadsbestuur vond dat het uiterlijk
In 1457 werd tevens besloten om ook het achter het stadhuis
van het stadhuis daarvan moest getuigen. Daarom maakte
naast de Wijnkraan gelegen huis en erf van Alijt Trompers te
Lieven de Key, de stadssteenhouwer van Haarlem, een ontwerp
kopen. Met de aankoop van de huizen van Wermbout en Alijt
voor een nieuwe gevel. Behalve voor de bouw van het Leidse
heeft het middeleeuwse stadhuis zijn grootste omvang bereikt.
stadhuis, was Lieven de Key onder andere ook verantwoordelijk
In de jaren daarna werd voortdurend, zowel inwendig als
voor de bouw van het stadhuis in Haarlem en de Waag in Gouda.
uitwendig, aan het gebouw gewerkt. In 1460 bijvoorbeeld
De bouw van de nieuwe gevel aan de Breestraat nam twee jaar in
bouwde men een nieuwe torenspits.
beslag (1595-1597).
Een ongeplande 'verbouwing' vond plaats in 1481. In dat jaar
Het achterliggende gebouw bleef ongewijzigd. Het sluitstuk van
ontplofte het buskruit, dat was opgeslagen in het stadhuis. De
de uitwendige verbouwingen vormde de bouw van de torenspits
raadzaal werd hierdoor volledig verwoest.
zoals die tot de brand van 1929 heeft bestaan. Deze spits was de
4
Stadhuis, 1984
5
Raadzaal, kamer van B en W,
vervanger van de houten spits, die was aangebracht na een
brand in de toren in januari 1573.
Vanaf de 17e eeuw
Ook het interieur van het stadhuis onderging allerlei
verfraaiingen. Jan Lievens schilderde het schoorsteenstuk voor
de kamer, die werd gebruikt voor vergaderingen van de Grote
Vroedschap, een stedelijk bestuurskollege, dat nu de
gemeenteraad heet.
De kamers, waar de vier burgemeesters vergaderden, maar ook
de kamers van de grotere kolleges, zoals het Gerecht, werden
verbouwd en aangekleed met gobelins, wandkleden met
ingewerkte figuren.
Voor de schoorsteen van de burgemeesterskamer schilderde
Ferdinand Bol een stuk over het bestuur van de stad.
De vier burgemeesters droegen zorg voor de stedelijke financiën,
het onderhoud van de stadsmuren en grachten en allerlei
'gemeentewerken'.
Schout, Schepenen en burgemeesters werden samen het
Gerecht genoemd. Het Gerecht vormde het bestuur van de stad.
Pas in 1808 werden alle bestuurskolleges in de stad afgeschaft.
Eén man, de burgemeester, kreeg het bestuur van de stad in
handen, geassisteerd door vier wethouders.
In 1824 werd Gijsberto de Mey van Streefkerk de eerste
burgemeester van Leiden.
Ook werd het kollege van B & W in dit jaar ingesteld zoals dit tot
op de dag van vandaag nog funktioneert.
De kuratoren van de universiteit, leden van de kommissie van
toezicht, vonden al sinds het eind van de zestiende eeuw
onderdak in het Leidse stadhuis voor hun bijeenkomsten. In 1681
kregen ze een eigen kamer, die tot 1811 dienst heeft gedaan.
Verder werden bestuurlijke en rechterlijke bevoegdheden
ontkoppeld. Rechtspraak en belastingaangelegenheden werden
rijksaangelegenheden.
De vroedschapskamer werd raadzaal. De weeskamer waar
vanaf ongeveer 1450 aparte 'weesmeesters' belast waren met
de zorg van ontheemde Leienaartjes en de vleeshal, waar de
kwaliteit van het vlees werd bewaakt, verdwenen in de 19e eeuw.
De rechterlijke kolleges verhuisden naar Rapenburg 19, het
huidige kantongerecht, zodat vele ruimten beschikbaar kwamen
voor het groeiende gemeentelijke apparaat.
en de Weeskamer vóór de brand van 1929
6
Stadhuis in 1928, een jaar voor de brand
Noordeindapleination - No. 2500 Telefoonnu... 57055 - Redactie Postbus 1507. No. 54
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LATIR
De brand van 1929
'Het stadhuis brandt'...
Als een lopend vuurtje ging dit bericht op de ochtend van 12
februari 1929 door de Leidse straten. Op deze noodlottige dag
werd een prachtig bouwwerk verwoest. Alles wat zich aan
kunstschatten binnen de muren bevond ging in nauwelijks
drieenhalf uur verloren.
In verband met de heersende vorst waren alle kachels in het
stadhuis blijven branden. De deuren van alle vertrekken waren
geopend om op die manier wat warmte in de gangen te krijgen.
Nadat de brand werd ontdekt rond vier's morgens door een
nachtwaker, werden onmiddellijk de brandweer en de politie
gewaarschuwd.
Om vijf voor halfvijf ontving de brandweer een telefoontje van de
dienstdoende telefonist op de Leidse telefooncentrale aan de
Bloemmarkt (=Boommarkt), dat er brand was in het stadhuis aan
de Vismarktzijde. Door de felle vorst, minstens 18 graden onder
nul, waren de wachtdiensten extra bezet, zodat allebei de spuiten
direkt konden uitrijden.
Een ambtenaar van de Stedelijke Licht-
labrieken. die behulpzaam was bij het op-
hijschen van een 9traalpijp kreeg. doordat
deze van de glang losschoot, het zware
koperen voorweip op zijn hoold en moest
per brancard naar het Ziekenhuis worden
overgebracht. Tal van politie-agenlen be-
kwamen bovendien door de glasscherven der
brekende rui'en snijwonden aan de handen.
Tegen zevenen arriveerde ook de hooldcom-
missaris van politie ùit Den Haag, de heer
van 't Sant op hel terrein van den brand.
Aan de Breestraat werd men langzainer-
land den toestand meester al bestond nog
ieder oogenblik de kans, dat de panden
tegenover het Stadhuis vanal hel huis van
prof. Kan tot aan de Pieterskerkkoorsteeg
door het overwaaiende vonkengordijn vlam
zouden vatten. De brandweer zorgde er
evenwel voor de gevels en daklijsten nat te
houden en onderdrukte elk begin van brand
in den kiem.
uit: Leids Dagblad, 12 februari 1929
9
Wat er van de toren restte... (Vismarkt)
De eerste spuit gaf water, maar de tweede spuit had pech.
Voorschoten, alle gevaar voor verdere uitbreiding geweken. Het
Verschillende kranen en leidingen waren bevroren zodat van
stadhuis was een troosteloze ruïne.
water geven geen sprake was.
Donderdag 14 februari bezochten koningin Wilhelmina en prins
De sterke wind joeg de vlammen vanaf de Vismarktzijde door de
Hendrik de plaats van de stadhuisbrand en uit het hele land
ramen en gangen. Het was levensgevaarlijk om het stadhuis nog
kwamen reakties van medeleven.
binnen te gaan.
AI spoedig kwam het bericht dat ook de toren in brand stond.
Voor zes uur stortte deze met donderend geraas in elkaar. Toen
De herbouw
de hele voorgevel in volle vlam stond was men bang dat de brand
niet tot het stadhuis beperkt zou blijven. De Leidse brandweer
stond vrijwel machteloos en kon tenslotte alleen nog maar de
Nadat het stadhuis op 12 februari 1929 was afgebrand vroeg
aangrenzende en tegenoverliggende gebouwen beschermen.
men zich af of er wel een heel nieuw stadhuis gebouwd moest
Omstreeks acht uur in de morgen van 13 februari was, mede
worden. Een andere mogelijkheid was namelijk de gevel van
dankzij de hulp van de brandweer uit Leiderdorp, Oegstgeest en
Lieven de Key restaureren.
10
@@@@@@@@ <<<<<<<<<
De gevel aan de Breestraat zou dan als voorgevel dienen voor
moeilijk als die van Lieven de Key in 1595.
een heel nieuw stadhuis erachter.
Lieven de Key moest een gevel plakken voor het bestaande
Op 11 juli 1932 besloot de Leidse gemeenteraad zes architekten
middeleeuwse stadhuis.
uit te nodigen voor het maken van een ontwerp.
De taak van Blaauw was een nieuw stadhuis bedenken achter
B & W, de gemeenteraad en de kommissie, die de ontwerpen
een bestaande gevel.
moest beoordelen, vonden het plan van ir. C.J. Blaauw uit
De Breestraat, vroeger een dijk, ligt een stuk hoger dan de
Haarlem het beste. Blaauw kreeg in juli 1934 de opdracht.
Vismarkt.
De werkzaamheden voor de gevelrestauratie duurden van
Wie aan de kant van de Breestraat het stadhuis via het bordes op
januari 1935 tot september 1939. Op 17 december 1940
de eerste verdieping binnenkomt, merkt op dat hij zich op de
betrokken B & W hun werkkamers in het nieuwe stadhuis.
tweede etage aan de Vismarktzijde bevindt.
Het stadhuis is dan ook een gebouw met twee aangezichten; de
Breestraatgevel, tevens Nederlands langste renaissance gevel,
laag en langgerekt (86 m lang en 10 m hoog) en de Rijnkant
Het nieuwe stadhuis De opdracht van Blaauw was even
massaal en hoog.
11
Het noodvers van stadsekretaris Jan van Hout
HH
Thrijc van Spaengien, hem verbliden
In tbeleggen, als Ri Ragen
Hoer gedult, mi dragen t'liden
Zo veel letters zo veel dagen.
NAE ZVVARTE HÜNGER-NOOT,
GEBRACHT HAD TOT DE DOOT
BNAEST ZES-DV|ZENT MENSCHEN :
A|_ST GOD DEN HEER VERDROOT.
GAF H] UNS WEDER BROOT
zo VEEL WI CUNSTEN WENSCHEN HEN ·
Zooct en vint tjaer. van liden Zwaer ,
Dat niet en was te herden
De Here, maen vrid uns daer naer
Der tiender maent. dem derden
'de vrede'
Kunst in en om het stadhuis
Het stadhuis van buiten
Als u voor de gevel aan de Breestraat staat ziet u geheel links
een poortje. Voor de brand van 1929 zat dit poortje, uit 1670, aan
de achterkant van het stadhuis. Aan de Vismarktkant was toen
geen plein maar een gesloten rij van winkels en woningen.
Twee rustende kinderen, links de tijd, rechts de eeuwigheid, ziet
u op de trap naar de hoofdingang.
De twee vrouwen in de nissen naast de deur beelden de
gerechtigheid (met zwaard en vergulde weegschaal) en de vrede
(met vergulde olijftak en wetboek) uit.
Het nood-vers in de gevel aan de Breestraat is van Jan van Hout,
de beroemde Leidse stadssekretaris.
De regels in hoofdletters tellen evenveel letters als de duur van
het beleg in dagen, van 26 mei tot en met 2 oktober 1574. De
vette hoofdletters, in de tekst onderstreept, op het stenen bord in
goud geschilderd, wijzen samen het jaar 1574 aan. Het jaar
waarop Leiden werd ontzet.
De vette hoofdletters stellen romeinse cijfers voor, waarbij de W
voor twee romeinse V's gelezen moet worden.
De romeinse cijfers, die in de tekst zija gebruikt zijn;
I=1, V=5, W=10, L=50, C=100, M=1000.
Thryc van Spaengien, hem verbliden
In tbeleggen als zi zagen
Met gedult mi dragen tliden
Zo veel letters, zo veel dagen
NAE ZWARTE HVNGER-NOOT
GEBRACHT HAD ToT DE DOOT
BINAEST ZES DVIZENT MENSCHEN
ALST GOD DEN HEER VERDROOT
GAF HI VNS WEDER BROOT
zo VEEL WI CVNSTEN WENSCHEN
Zuuct en vint tjaer van liden zwaer
Dat niet en was te herden
De Here maer vrid' uns daer naer
Der tiender maent den derden
13
'de roepstoel'
Naast de poort met het 'nood-vers' is de roepstoel, waar de
besluiten van de vroedschap werden afgekondigd.
In de muur tussen de ijzeren knoppen is een maatstok gekerfd,
die de lengte aangeeft van de Rijnlandse roede. De ijzeren staaf,
aan de muur rechtsboven de Rijnlandse roede, staat voor de
Rijnlandse voet. De maten waren aan de muur van het stadhuis
aangebracht om te voorkomen dat er met de afmetingen van het
laken geknoeid werd.
Als u om het stadhuis richting Vismarkt loopt springt het grote
plein met de fraaie ingang aan de Vismarkt, ontworpen door
architekt Blaauw, direkt in het oog.
Dit plein werd in 1981 nog aangepast aan veranderende
inzichten van het gemeentebestuur.
Naar ontwerp van stedebouwkundig ambtenaar Jean Piret werd
een nieuwe trappartij gebouwd, die de toegankelijkheid van het
plein sterk verbeterde.
De nu halfronde trap komt de funktie van het stadhuisplein als
openluchttheater ten goede. Bij diverse manifestaties en feesten,
die zich afspelen op het stadhuisplein doet de trap dienst als
tribune.
De burgerzaalgevel, links van de toren, sluit in stijl het meest aan
bij de oude gevel. De gebeeldhouwde stenen, links van de toren
van de hand van mevrouw Franzen-Heslenfeld, stellen van links
naar rechts voor:
de uitdeling van haring en wittebrood
de landbouw
een oude drukpers (voorheen en nu nog een van Leidens
meest bloeiende ambachten)
een dame, die zich laat portretteren
Minerva, de godin van de wijsheid
een weverij
een boer en een boerin rond de kaaspers
en een paling pierende peueraar
rechts van de toren, onder de kroonlijst van de raadzaal kijken
naar buiten;
Floris V
Hertog Philips van Bourgondië, die de stad met nieuwe
privileges begiftigde
Jan van Hout, de bekwame stadssekretaris
Frans van Mieris, de geschiedschrijver
Koning Lodewijk Napoleon, die zich voor Leiden inzette bij de
buskruitramp van 1807
en Thorbecke, de ontwerper van de gemeentewet.
Leidse peueraar
14
Beeldengroep met graaf Floris V
De toren
De welgevormde toren, die uit het midden van het gebouw oprijst
is 53 meter hoog en lijkt nogal op zijn lagere afgebrande
voorganger.
De romp is vierkant en bezet met 24 door Verstoep bewerkte
kraagstukken, die samen de vier jaargetijden voorstellen.
Die jaargetijden worden aangeduid door de tekens van de
dierenriem en de maanden van het jaar.
De beeldengroep, van
de hand van Mari Andriessen stelt de uitreiking van de
vrijheidsoorkonde aan de stad Leiden voor door graaf Floris V
(1255-1296) in 1266.
Opwaarts gaat de toren over in steeds smaller wordende
achthoekige verdiepingen. De toren wordt uiteindelijk bekroond
door een in lovers uitbottende bol (van de edelsmeden Jan en
Eloy Brom) met de windvaan (het Leidse stadswapen met de
klimmende leeuw als schildhouder), die afkomstig is van de
verbrande stadhuistoren.
15
Het carillon
Het eerste klokkenspel, dat nog met een houten hamer werd
bespeeld, werd in 1460 aangebracht.
In 1670 kreeg Leiden een echte beiaard (carillon). De 38 klokken
gegoten door de beroemde klokkengieters Hemony, werden door
de brand van 1929 volledig verwoest.
Na de brand werd een volledig nieuw carillon met 47 klokken in de
nieuwe stadhuistoren geplaatst.
De klokken van deze toren werden in maart 1943 door de Duitse
bezetters gestolen. Van de 47 in Heiligerlee vervaardigde klokken
bleven er maar vier over, waaronder de bourdon van 5.500 kg,
een geschenk van het 'Leidsche studentencorps' ter gelegenheid
van hun eerste eeuwfeest.
In 1950 besloot de gemeenteraad dat het carillon moest worden
herplaatst.
43 Klokken werden opnieuw gegoten door dezelfde firma, de
firma Van Bergen, uit Heiligerlee.
Ondanks alle moeite was de kwaliteit van het klokkenspel
verminderd.
Daarom werden op advies van de Leidse stadsbeiaardiers 31
nieuwe klokken gegoten en bijgestemd. Er werden drie klokken
aan het klokkenspel toegevoegd, zodat de beiaard weer
kompleet werd.
Een nieuw klavier werd geplaatst en het mechanisch speelwerk
werd vervangen door een elektro-magnetisch speelwerk.
Al deze werkzaamheden aan het Leidse carillon hebben gemaakt
dat Leiden nu 'een van de meest representatieve exemplaren in
de rij van zingende torens in Nederland heeft. De Van
Bergenklokken zijn hiervan de belangrijkste oorzaak omdat zij de
uitvoerder (Eijsbouts) dwongen geen standaardwerk te maken',
aldus het keuringsrapport van de Nederlandse
Klokkenspelvereniging
Het is dus de moeite waard eens naar het carillonspel van de
beiaardier te luisteren.
De hoofdingang
De hoofdingang aan de Vismarkt werd door de bekende
beeldhouwer Hildo Krop voorzien van twee forse pilasters met
een mannenfiguur (het gezag) en een vrouwenfiguur (de vrijheid)
als de twee polen van het stadsbestuur.
16
De versieringen stellen van links naar rechts voor; het beleg van
Leiden met het beeld van de toenmalige burgemeester van der
Werf; de aanduiding van de vijf fakulteiten van de akademie met
de beroemde geneesheer Boerhaave; een boerenvrouw met
korenschoven en een arbeider met werktuigen.
De ingang wordt bekroond met twee leeuwen, die de
afbeeldingen van het rijkswapen en het Leidse stadswapen
dragen.
De fraaie bronzen deuren met de wapens zijn ontworpen door
architekt Blaauw en gemaakt door Jan en Eloy Brom.
Het stadhuis van binnen
Op de eerste verdieping, rechts van de gemeentelijke
kredietbank, vindt u het schilderij 'Gezicht op Leiden'. Het stelt de
Haarlemmertrekvaart voor. Links op het doek is de wijk
Groenoord te zien. Het schilderij is de gemeente aangeboden in
1940 door de 'Leidsche vereeniging van industrieëlen' en
geschilderd door D. Nijland.
Op weg naar de tweede etage ook wel de bestuursverdieping
genoemd, ziet u een groot gebrandschilderd raam, het
wapenraam.
Glazenier Hofman heeft hier de wapens van de vele Leidse
burgemeesters afgebeeld, waaronder de beroemde
burgemeester van der Werf en Leidens meest geliefde
burgemeester de Gijzelaar.
Vanaf burgemeester van Kinschot is deze traditie voortgezet in
het raam tegenover de raadzaal.
De burgerzaal van het Leidse stadhuis werd voor het eerst in
gebruik genomen op 31 augustus 1948 tijdens een receptie ter
gelegenheid van het regeringsjubileum van koningin Wilhelmina.
In het dagelijks leven is een gedeelte van de burgerzaal in
gebruik genomen als trouwzaal. De vloer bestaat uit donker
omlijnde tegels van zeer kostbaar 'Arabescato' marmer, de
wanden bestaan uit zwarte 'Port d'Or', een marmersoort die
gevonden wordt nabij la-Spèzia en Jaune de Sienne, een gele
marmersoort. Heel bijzonder is de synchrone tekening in het
marmer, waardoor een soort spiegelbeeldeffekt ontstaat.
In de prachtige burgerzaal hangt het schilderij van Pieter van
Veen: 'De spijziging der verloste Leidenaren op de 3e oktober
1574', geschilderd in 1615.
Het schilderij is een geschenk van de schilder aan de stad
Leiden. Pieter van Veen leefde van 1564-1629. Het schilderij is
aan de brand van 1929 ontsnapt omdat het in die tijd net voor een
behandeling bij de Lakenhal was.
17
Burgerzaal
Familiewapen van Van der Werf
18
Entree Vismarkt
Windroos
De grote hal heeft een glazen koepel, met speelse bloemranken
in zwart en wit, ontworpen door Hildo Krop. Hildo Krop ontwierp
ook de windroos, links van de ingang, die door middel van
elektrisch kontakt in verbinding staat met de windvaan bovenop
de stadhuistoren. De vaan geeft elektrische signalen uit welke
hoek de wind waait.
De beelden naast de opgang naar de aansluitende gang,
drukken samen de vruchtbaarheid uit. Het beeld links is van de
Amsterdamse kunstenaar Leo de Vries en stelt een jong meisje
voor. Het beeld rechts, moeder en kind, is van Ruth Brouwer,
eveneens afkomstig uit Amsterdam. Beide beelden zijn sinds
1961 in bezit van het Leidse stadhuis.
In de op de grote hal aansluitende gang, die naar de raadzaal
voert, vindt u onder andere Paonazzo of pauwenmarmer. Twee
hoge mozaiëken van Lode Sengers verfraaien de muur. Het
linkermozaiëk stelt de waarheid voor, een nadenkend man die bij
het schijnsel van een kaars leest. Het rechtermozaiëk is een
uitbeelding van de bereidwilligheid.
leder marmer mozaiëk telt ongeveer 26.000 steentjes, die
allemaal met de hand zijn ingelegd.
KAS
19
Interieur
20
De raadzaal
In de vergaderkamer van burgemeester en wethouders vindt u
boven de twee zijdeuren twee houtinlegwerken (intarsia) van
Escher. Boven de ingangsdeur ziet u een klok met daaromheen
vliegende vogels. Dit houtinlegwerk, eveneens van Escher, stelt
de 'voortvliedende tijd' voor.
De raadzaal werd op 11 november 1945 in gebruik genomen en
ademt een ernstige sfeer.
Naast de kamer van B & W vindt u de burgemeesterskamer,
De betimmering van Braziliaans Pallissanderhout en de gobelins,
betimmerd met Satijnhout uit Ceylon. Hier springt een zeer
naar ontwerp van de Moor, dragen daar nog toe bij.
bijzonder staaltje van houtinlegwerk in het oog.
Het middenvak met de klok boven de toegangsdeur symboliseert
de tijd. De andere voorstellingen geven achtereenvolgens te
Escher heeft hier de groei van de stad Leiden, vanaf 1186-1940,
zien:
in beeld gebracht door achtereenvolgens de stadsuitbreidingen
van de stad in verschillende tinten hout vast te leggen.
de sociale zorg
Dit kunstwerk werd aan het stadhuis geschonken door het
- de arbeid
Leidsch Dagblad.
de kunst
de techniek
Het glas-in-loodraam met de Davidster op de tweede verdieping
de wijsheid
is een geschenk van de Joodse gemeenschap in Leiden. De
en de wetenschap
gemeenschap schonk het raam in 1981 aan de gemeente als
dank voor de steun van de gemeente bij de restauratie van het
Het geheel is een uitbeelding van het leven in Leiden.
synagogekomplex aan het Levendaal.
I
70
the
GROES PERIN
1299
1384
1
!!!!!
A
IT
HE
F
THE
THE
I
21
Op het pittoreske binnenhof staat een beeldje, dat een jongen die
een duif oplaat uitbeeldt.
Het beeldje, een geschenk van koningin Wilhelmina ter
gelegenheid van de opening van de burgerzaal, stelt Jan van
Duyvenbode voor.
De van Duyvenbodes, eigenlijk de drie broers Cornelisz., die bij
wijze van erenaam de naam van Duyvenbode mochten voeren,
onderhielden tijdens het beleg van Leiden het kontakt met Willem
van Oranje door middel van duiven.
Het vredesbeeldje staat als symbool voor zowel de bevrijding van
de bevolking na het beleg als de bevrijding van de bevolking na
de tweede wereldoorlog.
De jongen met duif is een werkstuk van L.O. Wenckebach uit 1954.
De funktie van het stadhuis
Gelukkig is het stadhuis niet alleen maar een mooi gebouw met
een aantal fraaie kunstwerken. Het is ook een huis voor de
burgers van Leiden, die er voor een heleboel zaken terecht
kunnen. Juist met het oog op deze publieksfunktie hebben de
afgelopen jaren een aantal ingrijpende verbouwingen plaats
gevonden, zoals bijvoorbeeld in de hal op de begane grond.
Voor de gemeente Leiden werken in totaal zo'n 1700 ambtenaren.
Natuurlijk werken die niet allemaal in het stadhuis.
Er zijn ambtenaren die werken in het Stadsbouwhuis, bij de
Sociale Dienst, bij de Lakenhal, de Stadstimmerwerf, Endegeest
enzovoorts.
In het stadhuis vindt u zo'n 300 ambtenaren, verdeeld over vijf
verdiepingen, die voornamelijk werken bij centrale afdelingen,
zoals Personeelszaken, Financiën, Voorlichting en Ekonomische
Zaken. Verder vindt u er een aantal grote publiekgerichte
afdelingen, zoals de afdeling Burgerzaken, de Kredietbank, het
gemeentelijk Informatiecentrum en de Informatiebalie.
In het informatiecentrum in de hal liggen kommissie- en
raadsstukken, bestemmingsplannen en dergelijke ter inzage.
Ook worden er regelmatig kleine tentoonstellingen gehouden.
In de grote hal bevindt zich ook de afdeling Burgerzaken waar u
moet zijn voor onder andere paspoorten, rijbewijzen, aangifte van
geboorte en overlijden, trouwen en verhuizen.
Voor leningen kan men terecht bij de gemeentelijke kredietbank.
De tweede verdieping is de bestuursverdieping, met de raadzaal,
de kamers van de burgemeester en de wethouders, de B & W-
kamer, de vergaderzalen en niet te vergeten de burgerzaal voor
recepties, ontvangsten en bruiloften.
De hal in 1979
22
De hal in 1984
INFORMATIE
53
1
ookkosten
prettiges
wonen!
want
11
latie van
Isolatie vloeren van
ken
I
Isolatie:
solatie:
--
Bij de samenstelling van deze brochure zijn gegevens gebruikt uit:
- Het Leidse stadhuis, L.C.J. Roozen
- Het Leidse stadhuis, bouw- verbouw- brand- herbouw
10 februari-25 maart 1979 de Lakenhal-Leiden
- Hutspot, Haring en Wittebrood, tien eeuwen Leiden en de Leienaars
De Kler-Waanders
Tekst: Janneke van Haastrecht - Direktie Voorlichting gemeente Leiden
Foto's: Dirk Ketting, Leiden
Archiefdienst gemeente Leiden
Loridan b.v.
Layout: Loridan b.v., Hans van Oosterom, Leiden
Druk: B.V. Drukkerij J.J. Groen en Zoon, Leiden
1e druk: december 1984
Engels
DE LEIDSE HOFJES
8
a n. g e 9 r a C h t
3
29
B
11.
16)
9
23
22
33
31
14
25
21
and
32
6
24
30
13
1
in
28
27
34
12
5
noord
CVFM
pentek. door J. Belt
17
15
35
26
Secretariaat
STICHTING LEIDSE HOFJES
18
Postbus 2230, 2301 CE Leiden
THE LEYDEN "HOFJES" (formerly almshouses)
6.*
Brouchovenhofje
tions made in the 19th century. In 1976/1977 it
27.* Jean Pesijnshofje
16, Papengracht. Monumental 17th century hofje.
was wholly renovated.
21, Kloksteeg. A 17th century hofj
The word "hofje" was derived from court or garden be-
The Vereniging Oud-Leiden (the Association Oud-
Pieterskerk. It was built on the S:
cause the hofje consists of identical little houses grouped
Leyden) uses the trustee-room for their committee
16. Sint Jans- or Van der Laanshofje
Robinson lived and died (1623) in
round a garden. In some cases there is/was also a chapel.
meetings.
264, Haarlemmerstraat. This 16th century hofje was
Green Gate".
Hofjes were founded by rich, often childless married
entirely renovated at the beginning of this century.
couples to serve as accommodation for their staff or the
7.
Cathrijn Jacobsdochterhofje
28. Sint Pieters- or Van der Spekhofje
elderly poor, who apart from free lodging enjoyed
1, Kaarsenmakersstraat. This hofje, founded in
17.
Jeruzalemshofje
42, Pieterskerkhof. Simple 17th
"preuves", i.e. gifts in the form of food, drink and/or fuel.
1598, was pulled down and moved to the present
49, Kaiserstraat. Oldest hofje in Leyden, founded in
Acces through a long passage.
Some of them were supervised by the church. Dis-
site in 1939.
1467. It was renovated at the beginning of this
tinguished hofjes have a gate-house in which the trustee-
century. The chapel was pulled down in 1887.
29.
Sint Salvatorshofje
room is often situated. Here the trustees met; in some of
8.
Cathrijn Maartensdochterhofje
17, Steenstraat. This 17th century
them founder-family heirlooms can still be admired.
2a, Pasteurstraat. Founded in 1608 and moved to
18. Justus Carelhuis
renovated to create housing for stude
The name of the founder was often immortalized in a
the present site in 1910.
51a, Witte Rozenstraat. Built in 1936.
stone in the facade. As to occupation there were regu-
30.* Schachtenhofje
lations which were often very severe. Some of them are
9.
Coninckshofje
19. Jan de Laterehofje
27, Middelstegracht. A 17th centui
still in force. Some of the hofjes, for instance, may only
15, Oude Vest. An 18th century hofje with simple
13, Tweede Binnenvestgracht. This 17th century
gate-house. The houses have been
be inhabited by women, others only by married couples.
little houses. The original architecture is virtually
hofje was renovated in 1888. It was restored in
novated.
After a fixed hour no visitors were allowed. In some
intact.
order to provide housing for students.
hofjes the residents were not allowed to let their guests
31.* Groot Sionshofje
stay over-night.
10.* Sint Elisabethsgasthuis
20. Joost Frans van der Lindenhofje.
4, Sionsteeg. This hofje, founded
When visiting the Leyden Hofjes please do not forget that
Main entrance Ceciliastraat; tourist entrance
16, Grevenstraat. Early 18th century hofje which
moved from Papengracht to Sionstee
they are inhabited. That is why you are kindly requested
Lijsbethsteeg. This home for the aged and infirm,
lost its intimate atmosphere when Grevenstraat was
not to disturb the rest and privacy of the residents.
founded in 1428, has undergone a splendid
constructed.
32. Emerantia Banningh- or Klein Sionsh
A number of hofjes may be temporarily closed owing to
restoration. The chapel and former almshouses still
3, Lange Schoolsteeg. Very small pri
restoration activities.
house elderly people suffering from chronic
21.* Loridanshofje
17th century hofje.
diseases.
1, Oude Varkenmarkt. Splendid 17th century hofje
The Leyden "hofjes" in alphabetical order. The most
with a picturesque gallery. Completely renovated to
33. Sint Stevenshofje or Convent van Te
interesting are indicated by an asterisk
11. Groeneveldstichting
accommodate students.
50, Haarlemmerstraat. This hofje, fc
41, Oude Vest. A row of houses, founded at the end
was renovated in 1777.
1.* Sint Annahof or Aalmoeshuis (almshouse)
of the 19th century for ministers' widows and
22. Juffrouw Maashofje
9, Hooigracht, entrance Middelstegracht. This
daughters.
6, Kalvermarkt. Early 20th century hofje.
34.* Tevelings- or Karel Tevelshofje
splendidly restored hofje of the late 15th century,
7, Vierde Binnenvestgracht. Picture
has a unique chapel, the original inventory of which
12. Heilige Geest- or Cornelis Spronghshofje
23.* Meermansburg
century hofje with trustee-room. Th
is still there.
1a, Doezastraat. This hofje, at first situated in Bree-
159, Oude Vest. Very large 17th century hofje.
ted this hofje to a diamond-shaped g1
straat, was moved to Doezastraat in 1851 when
Rich architecture. Fine trustee-room with a consi-
2.
Sint Annahofje or Joostenpoort
building space was needed for the college clubhouse
derable collection of portraits. By far the largest
35. Samuel de Zee's hofje
14, Zegerstraat. This old hofje entirely lost its
"Minerva". It was completely renovated in 1920
hofje in Leyden and recently restored.
16, Doezastraat. Nice 18th century
original character due to rebuilding in 1876 and
and 1926.
courtyards. Access through a long pa
1907.
24. Jean Michelshofje
3.
Van Assendelfthofje
13.* Eva van Hoogeveenshofje
10, Pieterskerkstraat. Early 17th century complex.
49, Langegracht. A 17th century hofje renovated
7, Doelensteeg. A 17th century hofje with lively
Rebuilt in the 17th and 18th century. Renovated in
in order to create accommodation for students.
facades, nicely patterned pavements and a beautiful
1964. Inhabited by students.
pump.
4.
Bethaniën- or Emmaushofje
25. Mierennesthofje
43, Kaiserstraat. Founded in the 16th century this
14. François Houttijnhofje
38, Hooglandsekerkgracht. Very small 18th century
hofje, when renovated in 1907, lost its former
81, Hooigracht. An 18th century hofje. Renovated
hofje, founded in the remnants of the old Sint Pan-
aspect.
cras Begijnhof (beguinage).
This folder was issued by the Stichting (
in 1969/70 by the "Stichting Leidse Studentenhuis-
Leidse Hofjes together with VVV-Leider
vesting" (Foundation for the housing of students).
5.
Bethlehemshofje
26. Barend van Namenshofje
Information Office of Leyden).
109-111, Levendaal. The exterior of this hofje was
15. Sint Jacobs- or Crayenboschhofje
12, Oude Hoefstraat. This 18th century hofje was
Drawing and map: J. Belt
renovated in 1897, but its courtyard has, for the
25, Doezastraat. This 17th century hofje has pre-
completely renovated in 1915 by order of C. Pape, a
Printed by: Beugelsdijk Leiden B.V.
greater part, retained its former character.
served its intimate atmosphere in spite of alterna-
wealthy trustee.
Die Leidener Flagge
Le Drapeau De Leyde
Wie die Flagge der Stadt Leiden im Laufe der Jahre vor
Le drapeau de Leyde, connu dès le XVlème siècle
1949 ausgesehen hat, ist bekannt, da sie oft vorkommt
d'après les tableaux et gravures, était généralement
auf vielen Zeichnungen und Gemälden, die seit dem 16.
représenté jusqu'en 1949 par deux clefs rouges
Jahrhundert entstanden sind.
croisées sur un fond de bandes rouges et bianches.
Auf diesen Bildern sieht man meistens zwei rote,
En 1948 la Municipalité engagea un expert afin de créer
gekreuzte Schlüssel auf einem Hintergrund von roten
un nouveau drapeau pour la ville de Leyde, qui fut offi-
und weissen Flaggenbahnen.
cialisé en avril de cette même année par le conseil
Im Jahre 1948 beauftragte der Magistrat der Stadt einen
municipal. Le drapeau mesure 2 mètres de haut sur 3
Sachverständigen, anhand von gegebenen Einzelhei-
mètres de large et comporte trois bandes horizontales
ten, einen Entwurf für eine neue, offizielle Flagge
de dimensions égales de couleur rouge, blanche et
einzureichen.
rouge. Excentréés vers le coté de la hampe se trouvent
sur la bande blanche les deux clefs rouges croisées,
In April 1949 wurde dieser Entwurf vom Stadtparlament
entourées d'un cercle rouge, empiétant sur les bandes
offiziell gutgeheissen und als neue Flagge anerkannt.
rouges.
Die offiziellen Abmessungen der Flagge sind 3 zu 2
Meter. Sie besteht aus drei gleichlaufende Bahnen
Rot-Weiss-Rot. An der Seite der Flaggleine befinden
sich zwei gekreuzte, rote Schlüssel auf einem weissen
Feld, das durch einen roten Kreis umrandet ist.
Les Armoiries de Leyde
Les armoiries de Leyde ont une longue histoire
commençant en 1125. En cette année-là, la plus
ancienne église paroissiale fut consacrée à saint
Pierre. A partir de 1293 apparaît régulièrement sur les
sceaux des documents officiels de la ville l'effigie de
saint Pierre, élevant dans sa main une clef.
Cette représentation trouve son origine dans la Bible,
chapitre 16, verset 19 de l'Evangile selon saint Matthieu
où sont cités les mots suivant s'adressant à saint Pierre:
"je te donnerai les clefs du Royaume des Cieux".
Au XVème siècle un écu avec deux clefs entrecroisées
apparaît pour la première fois en dessous de l'effigie de
saint Pierre. Après 1587 l'effigie de saint Pierre disparaît
des armoiries et apparaîssent différentes variétés
d'écus à clefs croisées, accompagnés d'un lion assis
ou de deux lions debout de chaque côté et surmontés
d'une couronne à cinq pointes. En 1948 enfin, la
Municipalité sollicita de la Reine l'acceptation définitive
d'officialiser une nouvelle version des armoiries. Celles-
ci furent par Décret Royal attribuées à la ville de Leyde
en 1950. Elles sont représentées de la façon suivante:
un écu en argent sur lequel figurent deux clefs gueules
(rouges) croisées. Derrière celui-ci se trouve un lion
gueules belliqueux tenant de la main gauche l'écu et
brandissant la main droite une épée nue en argent
avec une poignée en or, la pointe étant dirigée vers le
haut et à gauche. L'ensemble est placé sur un piédesta-
HAEC LIBERTATIS ERGO
le en pierre de couleur naturelle sur lequel a été gravé
en latin en lettres sables (noires) HAEC LIBERTATIS
ERGO.
Cette devise, pouvant se traduire par: pour la liberté,
date des premières années de la guerre de 80 ans
contre l'Espagne, lorsqu'elle fut gravée sur la tranche
leiden
des pièces de monnaie provisoires.
Uitgave buro voorlichting
druk: De Bink Leiden
Het wapen van Leiden
Leiden's flag
Het wapen van Leiden heeft een lange voorgeschiede-
We know of many versions of the Leiden flag prior to
nis, die terug gaat naar 1125. In dat jaar werd de oudste
1949 from numerous paintings and prints some dating
parochiekerk van Leiden aan de heilige Petrus gewijd.
back to the sixteenth century.
Vanaf 1293 is op de stadszegels van officiële documen-
Red keys crossed are usually shown on a background
ten regelmatig een afbeelding te zien van de Heilige
of red and white stripes.
Petrus met één opgeheven sleutel in de hand.
In 1948 the city council appointed an expert committee
Deze afbeelding is te herleiden tot de bijbel waar in
to prepare a desgin for a new flag, making use of the
Mattheus 16, vers 19 de tot Petrus gerichte woorden
historical data available. This design was officially
Ik zal u geven de sleutels van het koninkrijk der
adopted by the city council in april 1949.
hemelen" voorkomen.
In de viftiende eeuw verschijnt voor het eerst onder
The flag measures three by two metres, and consists of
de afbeelding van Petrus een wapenschild, met twee
three equal horizontal bands, of red, white, and red, with
gekruiste sleutels. In de periode na 1587 ontbreekt in
crossed keys in red on a white ground within a red
het stadswapen de afbeelding van Petrus en komt het
circle off-centre in the white band towards the leading
schild met gekruiste sleutels in verschillende vormen
edge, and intruding into both upper and lower red
voor: met een zittende leeuw, met een staande leeuw of
bands.
met twee staande leeuwen ter weerszijden en een vijf-
puntige kroon erboven.
Om aan alle onzekerheid een eind te maken verzocht
het gemeentebestuur de Koningin in 1948 om het
wapen opnieuw te laten vaststellen volgens een
The arms of the City of Leiden
Das Wappen der Stadt Leiden
bijgevoegd ontwerp.
In 1950 werd dit ontwerp bij Koninklijk Besluit tot het
officiële stadswapen van Leiden verklaard.
Leiden's city arms have a long history, believed to date
Das Leidener Stadtwappen kann auf eine lange Vorge-
back to the dedication to St. Peter of our oldest parish
Het wapen draagt de volgende voorstelling:
schichte, die 1125 beginnt, zurückblicken. In jenem
church in 1125. From 1293 onwards St. Peter appears
Jahre wurde Leidens älteste Pfarrkirche Sankt Petrus
in zilver twee schuingekruiste sleutels van keel (rood);
het schild van achteren gehouden met de linker voor-
on the City seals, with a raised key in his hand.
geweiht. Von 1293 an erscheint auf dem Stadtsiegel auf
den offiziellen Dokumenten der Stadt Leiden stets das
klauw door een strijdbare leeuw van keel, in de rechter
St. Peter's keys derive from the text in the Gospel accor-
Bildnis von St. Petrus mit dem Schlüssel in seiner
voorklauw opgeheven houdende in schuinlinkse stand
ding to St. Matthew, (authorised version) chapter 16,
erhobenen Rechten. Diese Darstellung bezieht sich auf
een ontbloot zwaard van zilver met gouden gevest; het
verse 19, in which our Lord addresses the Saint with the
geheel geplaatst op een vestingwal van steen in natuur-
den Bibeltext im Matthäusevangelium Kap. 16, Vers 19:
words "And I will give unto thee the keys of the Kingdom
lijke kleur, waarin met letter van sabel (zwart) gebeiteld
Ich will dir des Himmels Schlüssel geben".
of heaven, and whatever thou shalt bind on earth shall
Im 15. Jahrhundert kommt zum ersten Male unter dem
de Latijnse wapenspreuk: HAEC LIBERTATIS ERGO.
be bound in heaven".
Bildnis von St. Petrus ein Wappenschild mit zwei
Deze spreuk betekent: Dit omwille van de vrijheid, en is
gekreuzten Schlüsseln vor. Nach 1587 fehlt das Bildnis
A shield with two crossed keys appears in the Arms for
von St. Petrus im Stadtwappen. Von nun an erscheint
afkomstig uit de eerste jaren van de 80-jarige oorlog
the first time under the figure of St. Peter in the four-
ein Wappenschild mit zwei gekreuzten Schlüsseln, und
toen zij als randschrift diende voor het noodgeld.
teenth century. After 1587 St. Peter is no longer shown.
zwar in unterschiedlichen Formen; bald mit einem
From then on the Arms consist of a shield with crossed
sitzenden, bald mit einem stehenden Löwen, auch wohl
keys with a variety of designs, among others a couchant
mit je einem Löwen zu beiden Seiten der Schlüssel,
lion, a rampant lion, and two rampant lions, one on
darüber eine fünfzackige Krone.
De vlag van Leiden
either side of the shield, surmounted by a five-pointed
Um alle diese verschiedenen Wappen durch ein neues,
crown. To remove all uncertainties, the City Council
von nun an gültiges Wappen zu ersetzen, bat der
petitioned the crown in 1948 to re-define the coat of
Magistrat der Stadt Leiden im Jahre 1948 die Königin,
Hoe de Leidse vlag er vóór 1949 uitgezien heeft, blijkt
arms in accordance with a design then submitted.
das Wappen nach einem beigefügten Entwurf anerken-
uit verschillende prenten en schilderijen die sinds de
By royal decree of 1950 this design was declared to be
nen und bestätigen zu wollen.
16e eeuw zijn gemaakt.
the official coat of arms of the city of Leiden.
Durch königlichen Erlass wurde 1950 dieser Entwurf als
Daarop ziet men meestal de twee rode gekruiste
The coat of arms is now as follows:
Wappen der Stadt Leiden bestimmt.
sleutels, op een achtergrond van rode en witte banen.
A red rampant lion stands on a stone wall, carrying an
In 1948 gaf het gemeentebestuur een deskundige
unsheathed sword in its right claw, the sword slanting
Das Wappen zeigt folgende Darstellung:
opdracht om een officiële Leidse vlag te maken.
upwards to the right. In front of the lion is a silver-
Auf silbernem Grund zwei rote, schräggekreuzte
In april 1948 werd dit ontwerp officiel vastgesteld door
coloured shield bearing the crossed keys of St. Peter
Schlüssel. Dieses Wappenschild lehnt gegen hochauf-
de gemeenteraad.
in red. The motto HAEC LIBERTATIS ERGO in black is
gerichteten Löwen, der mit seiner rechten Pranke ein
De vlag meet 3 X 2 meter en bestaat uit drie gelijkliggen-
superimposed on the wall.
blankes Schwert mit goldenem Knauf schwingt.
de banen rood, wit en rood.
Gewissermassen als Sockel darunter ein Stück
Aan de broekzijde (dat is de kant, waar het touw is be-
The translation of the motto is This because of freedom".
Festungsmauer aus Felsgestein, das die Inschrift trägt:
vestigd) bevinden zich twee gekruiste rode sleutels in
The words were used on emergency coinage during the
HAEC LIBERTATIS ERGO. Dieser Spruch bedeutet: Um
een wit veld, omgeven door een rode cirkel.
eighty-years war.
der Freiheit willen. Er stammt aus den ersten Jahren des
Freiheitskampfes gegen die Spanier. Auf den damals
als Notgeld geprägten Münzen stand dieser Spruch als
Randinschrift.
We turn left and arrive via the Korevaarstraat
the
THE ROAD OF FREEDOM
De Kloksteeg (Tower alley) runs down to
(Cornstalkstreet) at the parkinglot the Garenmarkt
During this walk we will try to give you an idea of the
On the other side of the water we see th
(Threadmarket). On the other side you see at the corner
the small Synagogue (10), founded in 1762.
road
spirit of liberty that has always inspired Leiden and its
building (5) where the University of Leide
citizens. This sense of liberty was demonstrated in the
housed since 1581. The University was
resistance against the Spanish during the siege
on February 8th. 1575. This building was
of
in 1574 until the relief of the city on 3 October. The spirit
chapel of the White Nuns, but after the F
of liberty is also manifest in Leiden's offering asylum to
converted for the use of the University. T
foreigners who had been forced to leave their own
University is Praesidium Libertatis' (bast
freedom
country because of their religious convictions, amongst
Over the years the University has spread
others the Pilgrim Fathers.
but this building has always remained its
We walk on and arrive at the Van der Werfpark (11), called
Route indicated by green arrows
Returning to the other side of the Rapen
after the burgomaster during the Spanish siege. In the
The walk begins in front of the Town Hall (1) at the so-
'Het Duyvenhuis' (6) (The Pigeon House)
middle of the park you find his statue, on the pedestal of
which there are several pictures of the siege and the
of
called town cryer's stand, on the left side of the steps.
Here the brothers Jan, Ulrich and Willem
From this place on 3 October the town-clerk announced
3 musicians employed by the town, durir
relief of Leiden.
that the siege of the town by the Spanish had been
were in touch by means of their homing-
This park has been laid out on the site of the ruins
raised. In the name of the municipal corporation he
Prince of Orange, William the Silent, who
caused by the explosion of a gunpowder boat on
summoned the citizens to repair themselves to the
After the relief they were given permissic
January 12th 1807, which also severely damaged the
Pieterskerk to thank God for this miraculous relief. Like
themselves van Duyvenbode (homer-mes
Saaihal (cloth hall) on the other side of the water.
the citizens of Leiden in 1574 we walk towards this
take a coat of arms in which doves are di
church through the Pieterskerkchoorsteeg (alley leading to
the choir of the Pieterskerk).
It had been built around 1500 as a chapel for the hospital
Almost at the end of the Pieterkerkchoorsteeg, on the
A bit further on, opposite the mouth of th
of St. James and after the reformation it was used as a
right you'll see a small doorway a memorial plaque in
admiral Boisot was welcomed by the mui
cloth hall, an assay hall for certain kinds of textile. When
bronze (2) at no. 17a. In the alley beyond was situated the
corporation on 3 October 1574. He was
the clandestine catholic church nearby had been
printing office 'The Pilgrim Press' of William Brewster,
of the 'watergeuzen' (Water-beggars), wh
destroyed by the explosion of 1807 this building was
one of the Pilgrim Fathers. Here the tracts were printed
city. Here too the first loads of herring, c
offered for the catholic services on the instance of King
which criticized the Church of England. Diplomatic
for the starving people were landed.
Louis Napoleon. In this way the Lodewijkskerk (12) was
pressure of King James I of England led to the closing of
the first Roman Catholic Church which could be
the printing office, but Brewster remained free and later
recognised from the outside.
left for North America on the 'Mayflower' with the
Pilgrim Fathers.
At the end of the park we cross the canal and walk along
The Pieterskerk (3) is the oldest church of Leiden.
We go on along the Rapenburg, turn righ
the Steenschuur, passing the Lodewijkskerk, back to the
A bronze plaque commemorating the Pilgrim Fathers has
and walk back on the other side to the m
Breestraat. Here we turn left. Back at the beginning of
been placed on the outer wall of the baptistry. In the
This we follow on the left-hand side of th
our walk we arrive at the Town Hall. We take another
chapel there is a memorial stone honouring the spiritual
In 1574 the 'watergeuzen' entered the to
look at the town cryer's stand. On the tablet we read a
leader of the Pilgrim Fathers, John Robinson.
Vliet and in 1620 the Pilgrim Fathers left
poem by Jan van Hout. You should pay special attention
Robinson and his followers had settled in Leiden in 1608,
Delfshaven and North America.
to the middle stanza, consisting of 6 lines.
fleeing from the religious persecution of King James I
We continue down the gracht and see or
The number of letters of this stanza is equal to the
to a place where they could live in accordance with their
side the Pilgrim Fathers Documentation (
number of days the siege lasted (129). The gilt letters
beliefs. In 1620 some of them left for North America where
have to be read as Roman figures and counted together
they founded New Plymouth and became known as the
they give the year 1574.
Pilgrim Fathers.
Robinson, however remained in Leiden till his death in
Turning left onto the Boisotkade and cros
1625 and lived in the house called 'De groene poort'
Doezastraat we arrive at the Jan van Hou
(the green gate). At the site of this house on the left
after the town-clerk who, together with Ja
Edition:
VVV Leiden
(Kloksteeg no. 21) you'll now find the Jean Pesijnshofje (4)
and burgomaster van de Werf, led the de
Stationsplein 210
(an Almshouse).
resistance during the siege. The bastion
2312 AR Leiden
(9) (Austria), at the end of this quay, is th
tel. 071 146846
the city wall on this side of the town, a la
which collapsed during the last night of 1
MONUMENTEN VAN LEIDEN
schufters P
MONUMENTS DE LEYDE
sch
kooilaan
MONUMENTE IN LEIDEN
STATION
MONUMENTS OF LEIDEN
0
me
A Stadhuis
B
Pieterskerk
rd
e
n
S
g
Hôtel de Ville
Eglise St. Pierre
N
Rathaus
St. Peterskirche
P
P
]
Town Hall
St. Peter's Church
I a n g e g r a C ht
P
c
Academie
D
Gravensteen
P
age
ijndijk
L'Académie
Ancienne prison Gravensteen"
11
OKA
Universität
S
n
g
e
Ehemaliges Gefängnis Gravensteen'
d
e
University
Former prison Gravensteen"
o
di
e
V
S
P
E
Gemeenlandshuis van het
F
Waaggebouw
E
Hoogheemraadschap van Rijnland
Poids Public
Administration des Eaux du département
rhénan
mo
r
Stadtwaage
Deich- und Wasserverband von Rijnland"
Weighing-house
Waters-administration of the Rhineland
M
district
P
m
m
m
e
-
G
Hooglandse- of St. Pancraskerk
H
De Burcht
P
L'Eglise St. Pancrace
Chateau-à-motte
m
ч
nd
e
e
St. Pancratius Kirche
Der Burg
O
/
S
St. Pancras' Church
Motte Castle
H
t
e
E
e
n
J
g
Koornbeursbrug
K
6
St. Lodewijkskerk
6
Pont Bourse-aux-blés
Eglise St. Louis
e
e
C
C
Kornbörsbrücke
St. Ludwigskirche
C
D
2
4
ч
Corn Exchange Bridge
St. Louis' Church
G
t
L
Morspoort
M
Stadstimmerwerf
Porte de ville "Mors"
Chantier de ville
B
Stadttor "Mors"
Städtischer Werkstatt
4
h
hoge
"Mors" City Gate
Municipal Carpenters' Yard
woerd
P
N
6
Korenmolen De Valk"
O
Stedelijk Museum De Lakenhal"
10
Moulin à blé Le Faucon"
Musée municipal De Lakenhal"
<
11
di
a
e
n
Kornmühle Die Falke"
Städtisches Museum De Lakenhal"
I
e
V
P
Corn-mill The Hawk"
Municipal Museum De Lakenhal"
P
Q
Mare Kerk
R Zijlpoort
fruinlaan
L'Eglise "Mare"
Porte de ville Zijl"
Mare" Kirche
Stadttor Zijl"
Mare" Church
Zijl" City Gate
Auteursrecht VVV-Leiden
Druk: Rutgers B.V., Leiderdorp
Ontwerp: Loridan Studio, Leiden
At the corner of the Groenhazengracht we see the last
Leiden,
LEIDEN, A TOWN FULL OF MONUMENTS.
Leaving the Burcht-ground we turn right into
pothuis" in Leiden (low addition to the house). We turn right
This route has the form of a cracknel and leads us through
and arrive at the Corn-Exchange Bridge (7)
onto the Rapenburg and see, at nr. 25, the Bibliotheca
the old centre, past the principal monuments of Leiden.
this bridge, built before 1440, formerly the C
Thysiana (13), built in 1655 by the town-architect Arent
a town
Some of them date from the Middle Ages (de Burcht), others
held. In 1825 the bridge was roofed. On the
van 's Gravensande. Walking back to the Doelenbrug we
from the 17th century.
the Rijn we see the town hall designed by C
pass at nr. 31 the house of Boerhaave (14), the famous
full of
replace the old one burnt down in 1929.
physician of the 18th century.
From the Corn-Exchange Bridge we go strai
Breestraat where we turn right and have a Ic
monuments.
renaissance facade of the town hall (8)
Over the Doelenbrug we go into the Houtstraat to the
ROUTE INDICATED BY BLUE ARROWS.
This facade was designed by Lieven de Key
Gravensteen (15) already mentioned in 1352. The oldest
The walk begins near the blue stone (1) in the middle of the
against the already existing town hall by Lud
part is formed by the square and the octagonal towers in
Breestraat, between Pieterskerkchoorsteeg and Maarsman-
(1597). It is the only part that could be resto
the centre of the complex. Before 1463 this building was
steeg. On this stone sentences were executed and Leiden-
of 1929. In the facade you see the rings on
the count's prison, later, until deep into the 19th century,
cloth, found faulty, was publicly burnt. We walk along the
fastened their horses. Behind the town cryel
the municipal prison. The dark part at the left was the house
Maarsmansteeg down to the Visbrug and St. Jansbrug (both
place of the official proclamations - we see
of correction, the projecting part at the right was the session
bridges already mentioned circa 1200), linked by the
measure of the Rijnlandse Roede", which is
room of the magistrates, both 17th century. On the raised
Hoogstraat. Here, in the middle of the town, the old" and
Voet" or 3.7674 meters.
part in front of the gallery - in the language of the people
new" Rijn meet again after their split east of the town.
called Fair Sorrow" - the executions took place. Nowadays
this building is the seat of the Law Faculty.
Nearly opposite, at the corner of the Schoolsteeg and the
Standing in the Hoogstraat facing West, we see at the left
We reach St. Peter's Church (9) through the
Lokhorststraat, you see the Latin School (16) with its
side of the water the Weigh-House (2), built in 1658 by
choorsteeg. This church was built in the 151
stepped gable and red and white shutters, built in 1599 and
Pieter Post for all official weighings. On your right you see
first parish church, very much smaller, was (
in use until 1864. Many famous people went to school here,
the Huys ter Lucht (3). This house, as if rising out of the
the bishop of Utrecht - in accordance with 1
among whom Rembrandt. Through the Lokhorststraat and
river, many times rebuilt and restored, originally dates from
custom - in 1121. We turn right and see the
the Diefsteeg we arrive at the Breestraat.
the 14th century. Over the St. Jansbrug and through the
at nr. 22 (Huys in de Hoeck) dating from the
On the other side of the street we see, to the right of the
Donkersteeg we arrive in the Haarlemmerstraat, a busy
We pass the church and see on our right th
pompous facade with the pillars of the municipal concert
shopping street, where we turn right and right again into the
(the Count's Stone House) with its red and '
hall, the Walloon Church (17). It is the only remaining part
third alley (the Hooglandse Kerksteeg). Going over the cast
which we'll see later from the other side. Op
of the St. Catherine's hospital, dating from 1276.
iron drawbridge, we arrive at the Hooglandse Kerkgracht
front of the church used to be the churchyai
vaulted over long ago like many canals in Leiden.
collapsed in 1512 and was never rebuilt.
At the beautifully restored Gemeenlandshuis of the
At nr. 17 we see the entrance to the Holy Ghost or Poor-,
We follow the arrows through the Kloksteeg
Hoogheemraadschap Rijnland (18), seat of the Waterboard
Orphans- and Children's Home (4) from 1607. Over the
Nonnenbrug to the Academy Building (10) C
of the Rhine district from the 16th century, we come to the
entrance there is a (damaged) sculpture indicating the
Rapenburg. This former cloister-chapel of th
end of our walk.
purpose of the building: a dove, symbol of the Holy Ghost,
has been the centre of Leiden University sin
The task of the Waterboard has shifted from protection
extends its wing protectively over a few orphans: In the
Beyond is the Hortus Botanicus (Botanical (
against the water to the care for the quality of the water.
courtyard you are still aware of the atmosphere of times
laid out in 1594. At the Doelenbrug we turn
gone by. This complex, 3 facades wide, now houses the
Doelensteeg. At nr. 17 we see the almshous
National Museum of Geology and Mineralogy. At the end of
Hoogeveen hofje" (12). Leiden still has 35 ,,I
the Hooglandse Kerkgracht we see the St. Pancras- or
of almshouses, in which the aged are house
Highland Church (5), built in 1315 as a wooden church. The
accordance with the terms of the foundation
actual church dates from circa 1500, but was never completed.
present, young people.
The nave is much lower than the transept and the choir as
At the end of this alley we turn right along th
we can see from the square we reach when we go left
former grounds of the barracks, on the other
around the church. The low tower, built in the nave, is at
canal, used to be the practice grounds of the
Edition:
VVV Leiden
least 600 years old. Following the arrows we arrive at the
this Doelengracht and on the corner of the G
Stationsplein 210
corner of the Nieuwstraat where we see the gate of the
gracht, for which we are heading, some hous
2312 AR Leiden
Burcht (Citadel) (6), built in the middle of the 12th century
restored giving us thus a good idea of what S
tel. 071-146846
on an artificial mound. The big gate in the wall is decorated
looked like in former days. At the Groenhaze
with the coats of arms of the mayors who, between 1651
cross two bridges. Looking back we see the
and 1764, also acted as viscounts. The original entrance is
(gate) from the 17th century.
the small gate on the other side of the wall.
MONUMENTEN VAN LEIDEN
schutters P
MONUMENTS DE LEYDE
isch
STATION
-
haar weg
kooilaan
MONUMENTE IN LEIDEN
"
V
MONUMENTS OF LEIDEN
A
m
Stadhuis
B
ord
Pieterskerk
g
e
S
Hôtel de Ville
Eglise St. Pierre
N
Rathaus
P
St. Peterskirche
P
Town Hall
St. Peter's Church
a n g e g r a C h t
P
C
Academie
D
P
Gravensteen
lage
ijndijk
L'Académie
Ancienne prison "Gravensteen"
S
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I
Universität
Ehemaliges Gefängnis Gravensteen
di
e
V
S
University
Former prison Gravensteen"
P
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Gemeenlandshuis van het
F
Waaggebouw
Hoogheemraadschap van Rijnland
Administration des Eaux du département
Poids Public
rhénan
Stadtwaage
Sitz des Deichgrafenamtes
Weighing-house
M
Waters-administration of the Rhineland
district
P
m
m
G
H
Hooglandse- of St. Pancraskerk
De Burcht
I
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L'Eglise St. Pancrace
Chateau-à-motte
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St. Pancratius Kirche
Die Burg
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17
H
O
St. Pancras' Church
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Motte Castle
E
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6
6
K
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Koornbeursbrug
St. Lodewijkskerk
6
13
Pont Bourse-aux-blés
a
a
Eglise St. Louis
14
6
C
C
Kornbörsbrücke
St. Ludwigskirche
C
4
h
Corn Exchange Bridge
St. Louis' Church
12
L
M
Morspoort
Stadstimmerwerl
9
B
Porte de ville "Mors"
Chantier de ville
Stadttor "Mors"
Städtische Werkstatt
P
hoge rijndijk
Mors" City Gate
Municipal Carpenters' Yard
10
K
woerd
P
N
O
Korenmolen De Valk"
Stedelijk Museum De Lakenhal"
Moulin à blé Le Faucon"
Musée municipal De Lakenhal"
d
a
a
V
e
n
e
Kornmühle Die Falke"
Städtisches Museum De Lakenhal"
P
Corn-mill The Hawk"
Municipal Museum De Lakenhal"
P
Q
Mare Kerk
R
Zijlpoort
fruinlaan
L'Eglise "Mare"
Porte de ville Zijl"
"Mare" Kirche
Stadttor Zijl"
"Mare" Church
Zijl" City Gate
Auteursrecht VVV Leiden
Druk: Rutgers B.V., Leiderdorp
Ontwerp: Loridan Studio, Leiden
Following the arrows we turn into the Herensteeg, leading
Leiden,
LEIDEN, A TRUE DUTCH HERITAGE.
For a good view of this part of the town WI
to the Pieterskerk (St Peter's Church) (11) dating from the
Leiden is a typical example of a Dutch town with its canals
bridge to the Oude Singel where we turn
beginning of the 15th century. It is much bigger than
of former days. The town-development from the 14th to the
on the corner of the Oude Vest and the Ja
Leiden's first parish church consecrated in 1120. Via the
a true
17th century is clearly betrayed in the town-plan by its wide
spout-gable surmounted by a Statue of a
former churchyard, to the left, we reach the Gravensteen
canals, former moats.
here used to be a pharmacy.
(Count's Hall) (12), formerly a prison, now the seat of the
Law Faculty of Leiden-University.
Dutch
This walk shows Leiden's dependence on water, situated as
it is on natural and artificial watercourses. A "leede" is a
watercourse, so the name of Leiden may be interpreted as
heritage
(town) on the watercourses".
The S. front with its red and white shutters and the dark
Route indicated by red arrows
At the next bridge we turn back to the Out
house of correction beside it date from the 17th century.
The walk begins at the Blauwpoortsbrug (Blue Gate Bridge)
at nr. 159 the stately almshouse Meerman
The first building of this block dates from the 13th century
(1), until 1610 the NW entry into the town. Standing on the
in 1683 by the couple Meerman-Verburg.
and is to be seen on the other side, the square and
bridge we see the Haarlemmerstraat, which in fact is the
courtyard is surmounted by a merman wit
the octogenal tower in the centre.
N. Rhinedike. Looking back we see the 1669 Morspoort (2)
sword defending a citadel, depicting the r
On the corner of the Schoolsteeg (Schoolalley) and the Lok-
(mors = land surrounded by water), one of the two remaining
founders. At the bridge with the parapet to
horststraat you find the Latijnse School (Latin School) (13)
towngates.
we turn right into the Pelikaanstraat (Pelic
with its step roof and red and white shutters, built in 1599
the traffic lights left into the Haarlemmers
and in use until 1864 as a grammar school.
on the Havenplein (Docksquare), we are a
many watercourses. Straight ahead of us,
we see the tower of the Zijlpoort (Waterw
built in 1667 and is the other remaining tc
By way of the Schoolsteeg, just as narrow as it was 500
From the bridge we turn left onto the Turfmarkt (Peatmarket)
From the Havenplein we walk on the left S
years ago, we reach the Langebrug (Long Bridge), where we
and right into the Caeciliastraat. Now you are in De
along the Kalvermarkt (Calves Market) and
turn left onto the Rapenburg. Looking back we may see the
Camp", the site of several monasteries in the Middle Ages.
Herengracht (Gentlemen's Moat). Here th
tower of the University and some facades of 17th and 18th
100 m further we arrive at the St. Elisabethgasthuis (St
on both sides of the water by the well-to-d
century patrician houses. Following the arrows we arrive
Elisabeth hospital) (3) founded in 1428 and restored
working class lined behind them on the na
at the Bostelbrug over the Rhine. From this bridge we look to
between 1966 and 1970. In the sidewall of the hospital
canals. We cross the first bridge over the
the right into the heart of the town, where the North (or old)
coloured tiles depict scenes from the life of the Holy Elisa-
where some houses have kept their 17th
and the South (or new) Rhine meet again after their split at
beth. Later additions extend along the street, eg. the chapel
At the next bridge we pass, on the corner
the East side of the town.
(about 1500) on the corner of the Lijsbethsteeg (Elisabeth's
(Green Alley), a flowershop (9), where the
Alley). The buildings now house a nursing home for the
17th century house are distinguishable.
chronically-sick and aged.
Ahead you see the wide Galgewater (Gallowswater), on the
Turning left into the Lijsbethsteeg we arrive at the Oude
At the end of the Herengracht we turn righ
right bank the Stadstimmerwerf (Municipal Carpenters
Vest (Old Rampart). Here until 1610 stood the rampart
Rijn (New Rhine). In the third street on the
Yard) (14) with its step-roof and red and white shutters, built
topped by the town wall. Across the water you see the town
ste Gracht (The Middle Canal), we find on
in 1612 when the large N. extension of the town was started.
museum, built between 1638 and 1640 by Arent van
Annahofje (10) dating from 1507. In the cli
We are now back at the Blauwpoortsbrug where we started.
's Gravesande as a Lakenhal (Cloth Hall) (4) a Guild Hall
house it is rare for an almshouse to have
We walked along the moats, once the outer defence ring of
where cloth was tested and sold.
is the only altar in Leiden having survived
Leiden. The town centre spread out to the present moas so
The gables on the Oude Vest and Oude Singel (Old Moat)
iconoclasts of 1566.
that it is the second largest in the Netherlands, Amsterdam
characterise Leiden as a typical Dutch town.
being first.
When, turning to the right, we arrive at the first bridge
We continue our walk along the Nieuwe R
and see the Marekerk (Waterwaychurch) (5) in front of us.
Ganzenoordbrug (Goose Region Bridge)
This church was built between 1638 and 1648 by Arent van
(Hay Canal) and walk on upto the next bric
Edition:
VVV Leiden
's Gravesande as the first protestant church in Leiden.
Karnemelksbrug (Buttermilk Bridge) we ha
The Mare itself was filled up in 1953.
market which has been held for centuries
Stationsplein 210
and Saturdays. Continuing to the traffic lig
2312 AR Leiden
Gangetje (Alley) and the Breestraat (Wide
tel. 071-146846
along the Steenschuur, Leiden's oldest me
1200. The van der Werfpark, on the other
was laid out at the end of last century on tl
vacant in 1807 as a result of the explosior
MONUMENTEN VAN LEIDEN
sch
schufters P
MONUMENTS DE LEYDE
STATION
haarlemmerweg
kooilaan
MONUMENTE IN LEIDEN
MONUMENTS OF LEIDEN
weg
A
Stadhuis
B
Pieterskerk
d
g
Hôtel de Ville
Eglise St. Pierre
S
N
nswes
Rathaus
St Peterskirche
P
P
Town Hall
St Peter's Church
a n g e g r a C ht
P
C
Academie
.
Gravensteen
P
indijk
L'Académie
Ancienne prison Gravensteen"
OLD4
U
lage
Universität
Ehemaliges Gefängnis Gravensteen"
S
n
e
di
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University
Former prison Gravensteen"
o
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di
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V
P
6
7
E
Gemeenlandshuis van het
Waaggebouw
3
Hoogheemraadschap van Rijnland
3
Poids Public
Administration des Eaux du département
rhénan
morsstraa
Stadtwaage
Sitz des Deichgrafenamtes
Weighing-house
Waters-administration of the Rhineland
M
district
P
m
e
G
Hooglandse- of St. Pancraskerk
H
De Burcht
P
DD
L'Eglise St. Pancrace
Chateau-à-motte
h
n d
St. Pancratius Kirche
Die Burg
e
S
St. Pancras' Church
Motte Castle
E
H
-
e
-
e
D
6
g
J
Koornbeursbrug
K
St. Lodewijkskerk
6
Pont Bourse-aux-blés
Eglise St. Louis
a
9
a
a
Kornbörsbrücke
St Ludwigskirche
13
C
C
C
h
h
Corn Exchange Bridge
St Louis' Church
G
4
L
Morspoort
M
Stadstimmerwerf
10
Porte de ville "Mors"
Chantier de ville
B
Stadttor "Mors"
Städtische Werkstatt
P
Mors" City Gate
Municipal Carpenters' Yard
h
hoge rijndijk
K
woerd
P
N
Korenmolen De Valk"
Stedelijk useum De Lakenhal"
Moulin à blé Le Faucon"
Musée municipal De Lakenhal"
<
V
e
n
di
a
a
Kornmühle Die Falke"
Städtisches Museum De Lakenhal"
e
P
Corn-mill The Hawk"
Municipal Museum De Lakenhal"
P
8
Mare Kerk
R
Zijlpoort
L'Eglise Mare"
Porte de ville Zijl"
fruinlaan
"Mare" Kirche
Stadttor Zijl"
"Mare" Church
Zijl" City Gate
Auteursrecht VVV Leiden
Druk: Rutgers B.V., Leiderdorp
Ontwerp: Loridan Studio, Leiden
nere turn en through the monumental gate and you WIII rina
FULLOWING IN REMBRANDIS FOUISTERS
um ien, cross the Nonnenbrug and go su
yourself in the grounds of the old castle (Burchtcomplex). The
castle (25) consists of a man-made hillock crowned by a
Rembrandt
The greatest of all Dutch painters, Rembrandt Harmensz van
the Kloksteeg. At number 21 is the Jean P
Rijn, was born on July 15th 1606 in a house in the
built on the side of the 'Groene Poort' hou:
circular wall dating from ± 1150. From the battlements there
Weddesteeg in Leiden. His father, Harmen Gerritsz van Rijn,
John Robinson, the spiritual leader of the
I
is an interesting view of the old city. After you have looked
walk
was a miller an important occupation in those days. His
lived (1611-1625) with a number of his follo
around, take the 'Van der Sterrepad' to the right of the
mother was Neeltje van Zuytbrouck.
further on, on the wall of the baptistry of tl
''t Koetshuis' restaurant until you come to the Oude Rijn.
there is a bronze plaque (14) commemorati
Turn left, walk to the end of the street, turn right over the St.
the Pilgrim Fathers to America aboard the
John's Bridge (St. Jansbrug) and into the Donkersteeg until
following in
you reach the Haarlemmerstraat. Turning left you will see
before you the Hartebrugkerk (26) which dates from 1836.
rembrandts footsteps
Continue along the Haarlemmerstraat and turn right into the
The route for this walk is indicated by yellow arrows.
Turn left now and in front of you you will S
Vrouwenkerkkoorstraat Before you you will see the dome of
Turn right out of the VVV Office and right again at the traffic
Gravensteen' (15) originally the County pris
the Marekerk (27) dating from the middle of the 17th Century
lights, taking you into the Stationsweg (station-road). From
become the municipal prison and now use
and built by Arent van s-Gravensande. On your left are the
the bridge over the Morssingel you will see on your left
law. In front of this building turn right and
remains of the old Vrouwenkerk (28) which originally dates
Cornmill 'De Valk' (1), built in 1743 and now serving as a
Muskadelsteeg. Here, at what used to be h
from 1330. In the floor can be seen the outline of the church
museum about milling. To your right are the Boerhaave
where Rembrandt's sister lived with her hu
which stood there originally.
museum (2) and the Museum of Ethnology (3).
Jan van Lingen. From 1625-1631 Rembrand
Turn left into Vrouwenkerkhof and continue straight into the
Proceed straight ahead to Steenstraat, turning right into the
probably using as his studio (16) the room
Lange St. Agnietenstraat. To your right you will see the
1e Binnenvestgracht. Following the bend you will see on your
building on the first floor. It is possible tha
'Boerhaave Zalen' (29) which are in need of renovation.
right the Morspoort (4), built in 1669 by Willem van der Helm.
studio with his friend Jan Lievens (1607-167
Directly before you the gable of the Latin S
Rembrandt attended from 1614-1620.
Built at the end of the 16th Century as a cloister, it was later
Continue by entering the grounds of the Old Morspoort
In front of this building turn right into Lokt
used as a hospital for mental patients and sufferers from the
Barracks and you will see on your right a bastion with
then left into Pieterskerkgracht where at nu
plague. It was here that the world-famous professor of
beautiful views onto the Galgewater and the River Rhine.
beautifully renovated house of the Leiden
Medicine, Herman Boerhaave, and his successors taught at
Cross the Rembrandt bridge, from which you will see behind
Aemula Naturae, 18). Cross the street, turn
the bedside: consequently this can be regarded as the first
you the City Carpenter's Yard (5) built in 1612. Rembrandt,
into Berkendaalstraatje until you come to t
academic hospital.
who lived nearby, must surely have admired its beautiful
Turn right here and at no. 89 (19) you will fi
Before you stands the Groot Sionshof (30), founded in 1480
architecture. Now you go into the Weddesteeg where
which Rembrandt's tutor, Jacob Swanenbu
and moved to this site in 1668. Continue straight over
Rembrandt was born, and where he lived for the most part of
lived following his return from Italy in 1617
Klooster and then turn right into Lange Lijsbethsteeg. On
his life in Leiden. His birthplace is commemorated with a
Rembrandt worked and studied 1620/24 bei
your left you will see the Sint Elisabethgasthuis (31) which
tablet whereas the little square opposite (6) gives extra
temporarily to Amsterdam to study with Pi
dates from 1428 and has been beautifully renovated.
emphasis to this historic place.
(1583-1633).
Cross the bridge and turn left into the Oude Singel. At
Continuing along the Weddesteeg turn left into Noordeinde
Now turn left into the Wolsteeg and again
number 32 you will find the Municipal Museum 'De
and then right into the Oude Varkenmarkt (Old Pig Market).
Breestraat. To your right the splendid renai
Lakenhal' (32), by Arent van 's-Gravensande (1638-1640). This
Here at number 1 is the Loridanshofje (7) an almshouse
the Town Hall (20), 16th century, which esc
museum houses a historically important painting of
founded in 1657 according to instructions left in the will of
in the fire of 1929. At the traffic lights turn
Rembrandt (1626) and works by his tutors Jacob Swanenburg
one Peter Loridan, a wealthy wool dyer. Since its renovation it
Breestraat and you will notice "the blue st
and Pieter Lastman, his friend Jan Lievens, his pupils Carel
has become a student's residence.
place for executions and where poor qualit
van der Pluym and Govert Flinck as well as paintings by other
At the end of the market you will notice a monumental gate (8)
burned.
contemporaries. Continue the Oude Singel and turn right into
marking the entrance to the former Stadsdoelen (the Butts)
Nieuwe Beestenmarkt where you will notice the mill 'De Valk'
you should recognise St. George and the Dragon. To your
in front of you. At the end, cross over and turn left into 2e
right are the remains of the old armoury.
Binnenvestgracht. Turn right into Steenstraat and Stations-
weg, the end of this walk.
You now cross the bridge and continue along the
Straight into the Maarsmansteeg where the
Groenhazengracht until you reach Rapenburg. On the corner
chemist Christiaen Porret was situated. It
i
you will see the Thysiana Library (9), built in 1654/5 by Arent
Rembrandt was fascinated by Porret's colle
van 's-Gravensande. Turn right into Rapenburg and at no. 31
objects when auctioned on 28th March 162
you will see the town house of the famous Professor of
the alleyway turn right into the Vismarkt ar
Medicine Herman Boerhaave (10). At number 73 is the
will notice a fountain (22) and stone slabs (
Academy building (11), formerly the chapel for the Convent of
cleaned prior to sale. Turn left and cross th
the White Nuns. It is here that Rembrandt registered as a
the old corn exchange: it was built before 1
student on 20th May 1620. The entry reads: 'Rembrandus
date from 1825. Continue into the Brugstee
Hermanni Leydensis an 14 Stud.Litt. appud parentus'.
which you see to your right the tower of th
Behind the 2nd gate is the oldest botanical garden in Europe,
Church (24).
MONUMENTEN VAN LEIDEN
schufters P
MONUMENTS DE LEYDE
sch
STATION
haarlemmerweg
kooilaan
MONUMENTE IN LEIDEN
MONUMENTS OF LEIDEN
A
Stadhuis
B
Pieterskerk
rd
S
n
g.
e
Hôtel de Ville
e
n
Eglise St. Pierre
N
Rathaus
St. Peterskirche
P
P
Town Hall
St. Peter's Church
THE
langegracht
P
C
Academie
D
Gravensteen
P
lage
ijndijk
L'Académie
Ancienne prison "Gravensteen"
U
S
n
g
e
Universität
Ehemaliges Gefängnis Gravensteen"
o
di
e
are
University
Former prison Gravensteen"
o
di
e
V
S
3
P
31
E
Gemeenlandshuis van het
F
Waaggebouw
Hoogheemraadschap van Rijnland
3
Poids Public
Administration des Eaux du département
29
rhénan
Stadtwaage
5
30
Sitz des Deichgrafenamtes
Weighing-house
M
7/28
Waters-administration of the Rhineland
h
district
P
m
G
Hooglandse- of St. Pancraskerk
H De Burcht
P
L'Eglise St. Pancrace
Chateau-à-motte
6
nd
e
St. Pancratius Kirche
Die Burg
1
S
St. Pancras' Church
Motte Castle
E
H
e
7
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Eglise St. Louis
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Kornbörsbrücke
St. Ludwigskirche
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Corn Exchange Bridge
St. Louis' Church
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Stadstimmerwerf
Porte de ville "Mors"
Chantier de ville
11
Stadttor "Mors"
Städtische Werkstatt
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"Mors" City Gate
Municipal Carpenters' Yard
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Korenmolen De Valk"
Stedelijk Museum De Lakenhal"
Moulin à blé "Le Faucon"
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Musée municipal De Lakenhal"
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Kornmühle Die Falke"
Städtisches Museum De Lakenhal"
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Corn-mill The Hawk"
Municipal Museum De Lakenhal"
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L Eglise "Mare"
Porte de ville Zijl"
Mare" Kirche
Stadttor Zijl"
Mare" Church
Zijl" City Gate
Auteursrecht VVV-Leiden
Druk: Rutgers B.V., Leiderdorp
Ontwerp: Loridan Studio, Leiden
Illustrations
LEIDEN TOWN HALL
Wijnkraan at the rear of the Town Hall. With the purchase
of those houses, previously owned by Wermbout and Alijt in
p. 3 The Town Hall in 1587
the middle ages, the Town Hall had attained its largest size.
p. 4 The Town Hall around 1890
During years following, work was carried out on the
Leiden's monumental Town Hall is situated between the
building's interior and exterior. For example, a new steeple
p. 5 The Town Hall in 1984
Breestraat and the Vismarkt on the banks of the Rhine.
was constructed in 1460.
p. 6 Council Chamber, Burgomaster and Aldermen's
Actually Leiden's Town Hall has two entirely different faces;
Restoration work had to be carried out quite unexpectedly
Chamber
the old façade on the Breestraat side, which was designed
in 1481 after gunpowder, which was stored in the Town Hall,
The Court of Chancery before the 1929 fire
by Lieven de Key and built around 1600, and the "new"
exploded and completely devastated the council-chamber.
Town Hall on the Vismarkt side, designed by an architect
p. 7 The Town Hall in 1928 - one year before the fire
named Blaauw in 1932.
Both old and new façades bear visible witness to Leiden
The 16th Century
p. 9 Source: Leidsch Dagblad, February 12th 1929
Town Hall's long history, a history you will learn more about
Thanks to its textile trade the town flourished in the years
p. 10 The remnants of the steeple... (Vismarkt)
from this brochure.
after the siege in 1574. The council felt that this should be
p. 12 Town clerk Jan van Hout's "Cry of distress"
reflected in the Town Hall's outward appearance and it was
The earliest Town Halls
with this in mind that Lieven de Key was commisioned to
p. 13 "Peace"
As far as can be traced, Leiden already had a Town Hall as
design a new façade. Apart from his work on the Leiden
p. 13 The Town Crier's Seat
far back as 1350; a Town Hall that was no more than a
Town Hall, de Key was also the architect who designed
simple steepled building with a meeting room on the first
Haarlem Town Hall, the Waag in Gouda and other major
p. 14 An eel sniggler
floor for the municipal authorities. However, on the night of
projects. The construction of the new façade in Breestraat
p. 15 Group of figures including Count Floris V
August 24th 1381 a fire broke out and it was burnt to the
took two years to complete (1595-1597).
p. 18 The Van de Werf family-crest
ground.
The building behind the façade remained as it was and the
finishing touch to the external part of the construction was
p. 18 Entrance Vismarkt: the civic hall
Around 1410 it was decided that the Town Hall, which had
formed by the steeple, which remained intact until the fire
meanwhile been rebuilt, had become too small and the
in 1929.
p. 19 Windrose
business of extension was tackled on a large scale;
This steeple replaced the wooden one which had been
p. 19 Interior
neighbouring houses and grounds being purchased.
constructed, after a fire in January 1573.
p. 20 Council Chamber
The Cloth Hall (inspection and vending hall for cloth) and
meat-market were incorporated in this much larger building
From the 17th Century on
p. 22 The entrance hall in 1979
(the Cloth Hall on the first floor and the meat-market at
The interior design of the Town Hall also underwent various
p. 23 The entrance hall in 1984
street level).
stages of embellishment. Jan Lievens decorated the
The old cloth hall was sold and the cutters housed
magnificent mantelpiece in the chamber used for meetings
temporarily in the wool market. The old meat-market was
by the Town Elders, a body of civic governors, now called
also sold.
the Town Council.
In 1426 a room was created on the ground floor of the Town
This brochure comprises information extracted from the following
The rooms used by the four burgomasters for their
Hall where the aldermen could meet. There was also a room
publications:
meetings, and the rooms used by higher authorities, such
available for the Tribunal, the four burgomasters.
as the Court, were renovated and decorated with Gobelin
- Het Leidse stadhuis, L.C.J. Roozen
tapestries.
- Het Leidse stadhuis, bouw- verbouw- herbouw
The founding of the "College der Veertigraden" (the Board
The mantelpiece in the burgomaster's chamber was
10 februari-25 maart 1979 de Lakenhal- Leiden
of Town Elders) in 1449 made it necessary to create even
painted by Ferdinand Bol and depicted the town's
- Hutspot, Haring en Wittebrood, tien eeuwen Leiden en de
more room for meetings.
administration.
Leidenaars De Kler-Waanders
This Board of Town Elders, a forerunner of what we now
The four burgomasters took care of the town's finances,
know as the Town Council, was faced with the task of
maintenance of its canals and the town-wall and other
Tekst: Janneke van Haastrecht - Information Dept. Leiden
Foto's: Dirk Ketting, Leiden
finding a way to extend the premises again.
various municipal tasks.
Leiden Municipal Archives
The adjacent house, belonging to Wermbout Janszoon, was
Loridan B.V.
bought in 1455 and subsequently became part of the Town
The sheriff, aldermen and burgomasters formed the Court.
Layout: Loridan B.V., Hans van Oosterom, Leiden
Hall. This house can be seen on the extreme left of the
The Court, in turn, formed the town's governing body.
Printed by Drukkerij Beugelsdijk Leiden B.V.
drawing dating from 1587 (page 3), the three-windowed
It was only in 1808 that all the various governing bodies
building which rises above the parapeted part.
were abolished. Just one single person, the burgomaster,
The decision was also taken in 1457 to purchase the house
was empowered with governing the town, assisted by four
1st edition: December 1984.
and grounds owned by Alijt Trompers, situated next to the
aldermen.
1
The Board of Burgomaster and Aldermen was established
The front on Breestraat-side would then serve as the
in 1824, a board which functioned the same way then as it
façade for a completely new town hall built behind it.
A civil servant, employed at the local power station,
does today.
On July 11th 1932 the Leiden Council decided to invite six
As members of the board of supervisors the curators of the
who was helping to hoist up a fire nozzle received
architects to submit a design.
university had been allowed to use the Town Hall for their
severe injuries when it came loose from the hose and
Burgomaster and Aldermen, the Town Council and the
meetings since the 16th century. They were provided with
hit him on the head. He was taken to hospital on a
committee, agreed that the best design had been
their own chamber in 1681, a room which they used up to
stretcher. A number of police officers also received
submitted by C.J. Blaauw (IR) of Haarlem. Blaauw was
1811.
hand wounds from glass splinters as the windows
commisioned in July 1934 and the restoration of the façade
shattered. At about 7 a.m. the Chief Commissioner of
took from January 1935 to September 1939 to complete. On
The link between governmental and judicial authorities was
Police from The Hague, Mr van 't Sant, arrived at the
the 17th of December 1940 the burgomaster and aldermen
also severed. The administration of justice and matters
scene.
moved into their offices in the new Town Hall.
concerning taxes became matters to be dealt with by the
The fire was soon under control in Breestraat although
there was an immediate risk of the buildings opposite
state.
The aldermen's chamber became the council chamber. The
the Town Hall catching fire due to the curtain of sparks
The new Town Hall
Court of Chancery, in which individual trustees had taken
blowing in that direction. The premises at risk were
care of Leiden's orphans since about 1450 and the meat-
from professor Can's house right up to Pieterskerk-
market, where meat quality was controlled, were
koorsteeg. Members of the fire brigade were however
Blaauw's assignment was equally difficult as that of Lieven
able to keep the house fronts and eaves wet and fully
de Key in 1595.
discontinued in the 19th century.
The judicial authorities moved to Rapenburg 19, the location
control the fire from spreading further.
Lieven de Key's task had been to erect a new façade in
front of the existing Town Hall which dated from the middle-
of the present Cantonal Court, making more space available
ages; Blaauw's task was to design a completely new town
for the ever-growing municipal machinery.
(Leidsch Dagblad, 12 February 1929.)
hall behind an existing façade.
Breestraat, which was previously a dike, is much higher
The 1929 fire
The first hose was brought into operation succesfully but
than the Vismarkt and if you enter the Town Hall via the
"The Town Hall's burning...."
problems arose with the second one. Various water-cocks
steps in Breestraat you find that you are on the second
and pipes had frozen up making it impossible to draw
floor on the Vismarkt side.
The cry that the Town Hall was burning echoed through all
water.
This is the reason why the Town Hall has two entirely
Leiden's streets on the morning of 12th February 1929. It
The strong wind blew the flames from the Vismarkt side
different faces; the Breestraat façade, which is the longest
was on this ill-fated day that a magnificent piece of
through the windows and corridors and the situation had
renaissance façade in the Netherlands, long and low (86
architecture was destroyed and within the space of three
become far too dangerous to enter the Town Hall.
metres in lenght and 10 metres high), and massive and high
and a half hours, all the art treasures inside its walls were
The shout that the steeple had also caught fire was soon
on the Rhine side.
lost forever!
heard; it crashed with a deafening roar before six o'clock.
Because of the extreme low temperatures, all of the Town
When the whole of the façade was one massive inferno it
Works of art - inside and outside the Town Hall
Hall's stoves had been left burning and all connecting
was feared that the fire would spread. Leiden's fire brigade
doors left open in order to heat the corridors.
was almost powerless and soon the men were only able to
The outside of the Town Hall
try to protect the buildings opposite. Thanks to assistance
The fire was discovered by a night watchman at around four
from the fire brigades from Leiderdorp, Oegstgeest and
If you stand in front of the Breestraat façade, to the left you
o'clock in the morning and the fire brigade and police were
Voorschoten at about eight o'clock in the morning of
will see a small gate. This gate was at the rear of the Town
contacted immediately.
February 13th the danger of the fire spreading even further
Hall before the fire in 1670 and on the Vismarkt side there
had been eliminated. By that time the Town Hall had been
was no square to be found then, but a continuous row of
At twenty-five past four, the fire brigade received a
reduced to a forlorn ruin.
shops and houses.
telephone call from the telephonist on duty at the
Queen Wilhelmina and Prince Hendrik came to view the
Two reclining children, to the left "time" and to the right
Bloemmarkt (now the Boommarkt) telephone exchange
extent of the fire on February the 14th and messages of
"eternity" can be seen on the steps leading up to the main
informing them that a fire had broken out in the Town Hall
sympathy were received from all parts of the country.
entrance.
on the Vismarkt side. Because of the fierce frost (at least 18
The two female figures seen in the alcoves next to the door
degrees below zero) the number of men on duty at the fire
station had been increased, consequently it was possible
Reconstruction
depict justice (with her sword and guilded scales) and
peace (with guilded olive twig and law book).
to deploy both of the town's fire engines.
After the Town Hall had been destroyed by fire of February
12th 1929 the question arose whether a completely new
The cry of distress hewn into the Breestraat façade was
Town Hall should be built. The only other possibility was to
written by Jan van Hout, Leiden's famous town clerk.
restore the façade that had been designed by Lieven de
The lines of this verse written in capital letters contain as
Key.
many letters as days Leiden endured under seige; from the
2
26th of May up to and including the 2nd of October 1574.
The style of the civic hall façade, to the left of the steeple, is
A completely new carillon with 47 bells was then installed in
The gold painted capital letters (underlined in the Dutch
most like the old façade. The sculptured masonry, to the left
the new Town Hall steeple.
text below) add up to the date 1574. The date on which
of the steeple, the work of Ms Franzen-Heslenfeld, portray
However, these bells were stolen by the Germans during
Leiden was liberated.
from left to right:
the occupation in 1943 and only 4 of the original 47 bells
The boldface printed capital letters represent Roman
- the distribution of salted herring and white bread
which had been manufactered in Heiligerlee were left,
numerals; the W being read as two letters Vs.
- agriculture
including the "bourdon" weighting 5.500 kilogrammes. This
The numerals used in the text are:
- an old printing press (one of Leiden's most flourishing
bell had been presented to the Town Hall by Leiden
= 1, V = 5, W = 10, L = 50, C = 100, M = 1.000.
trades, both in the present and the past)
Undergraduate's Corps on the occasion of their first
- a lady, having her portrait painted
centenary.
- Minerva, the godess of wisdom
Thryc van Spaengien, hem verbliden
- a weaving mill
In 1950 the town council decided that the carillon should be
In tbeleggen als zi zagen
- a farmer and his wife at the cheese press
reinstalled and the 43 bells were once again cast by the
same firm, Van Bergen of Heiligerlee.
Met gedult mi dragen tliden
- and an eel sniggler
Despite all the trouble that had been taken, the carillon's
Zo veel letters, zo veel dagen
to the right of the steeple, peering out beneath the cornice
of the civic hall are:
quality had taken a backward slide.
NAE ZWARTE HVNGER-NOOT
Advised by the Leiden carillonneurs, 31 new bells were cast
- Floris V
GEBRACHT HAD TOT DE DOOT
and tuned, a further three bells were added to the carillon
- Philips, the Duke of Burgundy, who gave the town new
and the "beiaard" was complete.
BINAEST ZES DVIZENT MENSCHEN
privileges
A new keyboard was installed and the mechanical
ALST GOD DEN HEER VERDROOT
- Jan van Hout, the skilled town clerk
equipment was replaced by an electro-magnetic system.
GAF HI VNS WEDER BROOT
- Frans van Mieris, the historian
- King Lodewijk Napoleon, who gave assistance to Leiden
All this work carried out on Leiden's carillon has resulted in
ZO VEEL WI CVNSTEN WENSCHEN
in 1807 after the gunpowder explosion
Leiden now having "one of the most representative
Zuuct en vint tjaer van liden zwaer
- and finally, Thorbecke, the man who drafted the Municipal
examples of Holland's long list of musical steeples. The Van
Dat niet en was te herden
Corporations Act.
Bergen bells were the major contributing factor to this as
De Here maer vrid' uns daer naer
they compelled Eijsbouts (the installer) not to tackle it as
The steeple
simply a standard job", according to the report compiled by
Der tiender maent den derden
the Dutch Carillon Association.
The beautifully designed steeple rising from the building's
It is, therefore, more than worth it to take the time and listen
centre is 53 metres tall and although much higher it looks
really carefully to the music played on this carillon.
Adjacent to the gate in which the "cry of distress" verse is
very much like the earlier one that was destroyed in the fire.
written is the seat from which the town crier announced
The main body of the steeple is square and decorated with
council decisions.
24 corbels sculptured by Verstoep to portray the four
A measuring rule is hewn into the wall between the iron
seasons. In turn, the seasons are represented by the signs
knobs; this rule indicates the "Rijnland" rod and the iron
of the zodiac and the months of the year.
The main entrance
staff attached to the wall tot the right above the Rijnland
The figures sculptured by Mari Andriessen portray the
rod, indicates the "Rijnland" foot. These measurements
presentation of the charter of liberty to the town of Leiden
The main entrance on the Vismarkt side was embellished
were indicated on the wall of the Town Hall to ensure that
by Count Floris V (1255-1296) in 1266.
with two massive pillars made by the well-known sculptor
cloth was not sold at short measure.
Hildo Krop. These pillars depict a male figure (authority)
As the steeple rises its octangular shaped storeys become
and a female figure (liberty) as the two poles of the town
If you walk round the Town Hall in the direction of the
narrower, crowned by an open sphere of foliage (made by
council.
Vismarkt the first thing that strikes you is the large square
gold and silversmiths Jan and Eloy Brom) bearing the
with Blaauw's magnificently designed entrance to the Town
weather-vane (the Leiden town-crest with its rampant lion
From left to right, the ornamental decorations represent the
Hall on the Vismarkt side.
holding the shield) which originates from the steeple which
siege of Leiden by the bust of the then burgomaster, van
This square was reconstructed in 1981 to suit the wishes of
was earlier destroyed by fire.
der Werf; reference to the five academic faculties by the
the town council. New steps leading up to the entrance
The carillon
bust of the famous physician, Boerhaave; a peasant woman
were built to a design by town-planner Jean Piret. This has
by sheaves of corn and a worker by machinery.
vastly improved the accessibility of the square.
The first chimes, which were at that time played with a
The entrance is crowned with two lions bearing the Dutch
These semi-circular stairs now contribute towards the Town
wooden hammer, were installed in 1460.
coat of arms and the Leiden town-crest.
Hall square's second function: that of an open air theatre. It
Leiden obtained a real "beiaard" (carillon) in 1670. The 38
The beautiful bronze doors decorated with the crests were
is used as a stage during the many festivities which take
bells cast at the famous bell foundry, Hemony, were totally
designed by architect Blaauw and made by Jan and Eloy
place in the square.
destroyed in the 1929 fire.
Brom.
4
Inside the Town Hall
The walls of the corridor leading from the large hall to the
brothers, who, as a name of honour were allowed to use the
council chamber are of Paonazzo marble. A magnificent
name of Van Duyvenbode (=pigeon post messenger), kept
To the right of the Gemeentelijke Kredietbank on the first
setting for the two mosaics made by Lode Sengers. The left
in touch with William of Orange during the siege of Leiden
floor hangs the painting "Gezicht op Leiden" (View of
one represents "truth", a man deep in thought, reading by
by using post pigeons.
Leiden) by D. Nijland. It shows the Haarlemmertrekvaart and
the glimmer of candlelight. The one on the right represents
This peace memorial stands as a symbol of the release of
Groenoord can be seen on the left of the picture. This
"willingness". Each mosaic consists of about 26.000 little
Leiden's inhabitants from the siege as also the liberation of
painting was presented to the town by the Leiden
stones, all set by hand.
the people from World War II.
Association of Industrialists in 1940.
The boy with the pigeon was made by L.O. Wenckebach in
On the way to the second floor, sometimes referred to as
The Council Chamber
1954.
the "council floor", we see a large stained-glass window -
the "coat of arms window".
The council chamber was inaugurated on 11 November
The function of the Town Hall
Glazer Hofman made this window depicting the coats of
1945 and its atmosphere is one of solemnity. All the
arms of many Leiden burgomasters, including the most
woodwork is Brazilian Pallisander and the solemn
The Town Hall is not only a beautiful building that contains
famous one, Van der Werf and Leiden's beloved 'De
atmosphere is emphasised even more by the Gobelin
a number of magnificent works of art. It is also a building
Gijzelaar'.
tapestries designed by de Moor.
that is open to the population of Leiden, offering them a
This is a tradition that has been continued since the days of
Above the entrance door the centre panel with the clock is
number of services. It is with this function in mind that a
Burgomaster van Kinschot, on the window facing the
a symbol of "time". The others represent:
great deal of radical restructuring has taken place over the
council-chamber.
- social welfare
past years, the hall on the ground floor being a pefect
- labour
example.
Leiden Town Hall's civic hall (a part of which is used for
- the arts
wedding ceremonies) was first used on August 31st 1948
- technology
A total work force of 1.700 civil servants work for the
for a reception to celebrate Queen Wilhelmina's Royal
- wisdom
Municipality of Leiden. Obviously, they are not all employed
Jubilee.
- and the sciences.
in the Town Hall itself. There are civil servants who work in
The floor is laid with costly dark edged "Arabescato"
the Stadsbouwhuis, the Social Welfare Offices, the local
marble, the walls of black "Port d'Or", a marble found in the
All together, a representation of life in Leiden.
museum the Lakenhal (Cloth Hall), the Stadstimmerwerf
la-Spèzia region and Jaune de Sienne, a yellow marble.
(Municipal carpenter's yard), Endegeest (Psychiatric Clinic),
A very special "mirror" effect is obtained from this marble's
Two intarsias by Escher are to be seen above the two side-
etc.
structure. It is in this splendid civic hall that we see Pieter
doors in the burgomaster and aldermen's (B&W) meeting
About 300 civil servants work in the offices on the Town
van Veen's painting "De spijziging der verloste Leidenaren
room. Another work by Escher, of a clock surrounded by
Hall's five floors; civil servants who work mainly for central
op de 3e oktober 1574" a painting of "the feeding of the
birds in flight, can be seen above the entrance door. This
departments such as the Personnel Department, Finance,
liberated inhabitants of Leiden on October 3rd 1574", dating
symbolises "the passage of time".
Information and Economic Affairs. There are also a number
from 1615.
of departments specially with a strong public directed
This painting was given to the town by the artist himself.
Next to the burgomaster and aldermen's (B&W) room is the
function, such as the Registrat's Office, the Kredietbank,
Pieter van Veen was born in 1564 and died in 1629. This
burgomaster's room, panelled with satin wood from Ceylon.
the Municipal Information Centre and the Information Desk.
particular painting survived the fire in 1929 because at that
The manner in which this wood has been used to decorate
In the Information Centre, situated in the entrance hall, one
time it had been removed to the Cloth Hall to be restored.
the room is most unusual.
can find committee and council documents, public planning
Escher depicted the town's consecutive expansions
documents and the like, open for public inspection.
On the ceiling of the large hall is a glass dome decorated
between 1186 and 1940 in various tints of wood. This work
Small exhibitions are also held regularly in this hall. The
with twining blossom in black and white, designed by Hildo
of art was presented to the Town Hall by one of the local
Registrar's Office is also located here; this is the
Krop. The wind rose, to the left of the entrance, was also
newspapers of Leiden, "Leidsch Dagblad".
department that deals with passports, driving licences,
from his hand. An electrical contact connects this wind
registration of births and deaths, marriages and change of
rose with the weather vane on top of the Town Hall steeple
The leaded window with the Star of David (on the second
address.
and is rotated to show the wind direction.
floor) was a gift from Leiden's Jewish community, donated
For loans, there is the Gemeentelijke Kredietbank
to the Council in 1981 in appreciation of its support towards
(Municipal Credit Bank). The second floor houses the local
the restauration of the Synagogue complex, Levendaal 14.
council authorities, the council chamber, the burgomaster
The sculptured figures on either side of the elevation
and aldermen's offices, the burgomaster and aldermen's
leading to the connecting corridor represent fertility. The
In the Town Hall's picturesque inner courtyard stands a
chamber, meeting rooms and lastly, the civic hall, used for
figure on the left was made by the Amsterdam artist Leo de
statue of a boy releasing a pigeon.
official receptions and wedding receptions.
Vries and is of a young girl. To the right, the statue of a
This statue, a gift from Queen Wilhelmina to commemorate
mother and child, was made by Ruth Brouwer, another
the opening of the civic hall, represents Jan van
Amsterdam artist. Both statues have been owned by the
Duyvenbode.
Town Hall since 1961.
The Van Duyvenbodes, actually the three Cornelisz
5
THE PAINTINCS
1. Woods in Autumn
oilpaint, canvas, 82x69 cm
2. Sailing Vesscls, 1900
oilpaint, canvas, 55x47 on
3. In the Woods
oilpaint, canvas, 73.5x55 cm
4. Silvery Moon in a Haze, 1932
oilpaint, canvas, 66x55 cm
5. The Church of Aune, 1927
oilpsint, canvas, 100x105 CM
6. Farms in the Valley
pastel, 46x55 cm
7. My Home in the Mountains, 1928
pastel, 55x46 cm
13/06/89
08:26
USIS AMERICAN EMBASSY THE HAGUE
001
United States
Information
Service
Lange Voorhout 102
2514 EJ's Gravanhage
USIS
Telephone: (0) 70-624-911
American Embassy, The Haque, The Netherlands
Fax Number
(070) 65 88 37 (within The Netherlands)
(31) 70 65 88 37 (outside The Netherlands)
Date:
13 June 1989
No. of Pages Including This Page:
4
To:
White House Advance Office
Peggy Dooley
Spccchwriters Staff
FAX 09-1-202-456-2820
From:
USIS - The Hague
William La Salle
Subject: Provided, for your information, is the text of
pamphlet used at Ambassador's Residence to introduced
guests to the paintings there by American impressionist
painter William Singer.
PAINTINGS BY
WILLIAM HENRY SINGER, JR.
ON LOAN FROM THE
STICHTING SINGER MEMORIAL FOUNDATION,
LAREN, THE NETHERLANDS
AT
THE AMERICAN AMBASSADOR'S RESIDENCE
TOBIAS ASSERLAAN 4
THE HAGUE
3
n.
13/06/89
08:27
USIS AMERICAN EMBASSY THE HAGUE
003
WILLIAM HENRY SINGER, JR.
William Henry Singer Jr- was born in 1868 in
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as the youngest son of
steel magnate William Singer. As a child William
was already very interested in drawing and
painting, and although Singer Sr. had hoped that
his son would succeed him In the steel factory,
William chose the HrLs.
In 1893 Singer met Anna Spencer Brugh whom he
married two years later. Anna Singer has played an
Important role in the artistic development of her
husband. In 1900 the Singers traveled to Paris.
However, they disliked the notse and bustle of the
big city, and moved to rural Laren, in the
Netwer 2.44 it.r.t the reputation #2 - The
"Dutch Barbizon". In 1909 their house "The Wild
Swans" was built. Until William's death in 1943,
the Singers lived alternately in Laren and in
Olden, Norway.
William Singer's works characterize his love for
nature. His impressionist paintings and pastels
show a keen eye for color and composition, and his
landscapes breath the seasonal atmospheres. The
Norwegian landscape was Singer's major source of
inspiration, but his works also Include Dutch and
American scenes, as well as some still lifes.
Brief History of the SINGER MUSEUM in Laren
In 1954, Mrs. Anna Singer commissioned architect
Wouter Hamdorff to add two wings to the Singer's
country livuse "The WILL Owand", thus creating a
cultural center where the Singer collection could
be put on permanent exhibition as an humage to her
late husband William Singer.
The Singer collection, consisting of some 500 art
works by William Singer, as well as Dutch,
American and French artists, and the llew cultural
center were donated by Anna Singer to the Singer
Memorial Foundation. On May 12, 1956 the Singer
Museum and adjacent concert hall were opened. The
museum is located at Oude Drift 1, 1251 BS Laren.
COUNTRY VISITED
DATE OF VISIT
PRESIDENT
Egypt:
1974 June 12-14
Nixon
Cairo, Alexandria
Egypt:
1978 January 4
Carter
Aswan
Egypt:
1979 March 7-10
Carter
Cairo, Alexandria, Giza
Egypt:
1979 March 13
Carter
Cairo
ET Salvador:
1928 November 26
Hoover (E)
Cutuco
E1 Salvador:
1968 July 6-8
Johnson
San Salvador
Finland:
1975 July 29-August 2
Ford
Helsinki
France:
1918 December 14-25
Wilson
Paris, Chaumont
France:
1919 January 7-
Wilson
Paris
February 14
France:
1919 March 14-June 18
Wilson
Paris
France:
1919 June 20-28
Wilson
Paris
France:
1943 November 20
Roosevelt, F.D.
Algeria,
Oran
26
COUNTRY VISITED
DATE OF VISIT
PRESIDENT
France:
1943 December 9
Roosevelt, F.D.
Senegal,
Dakar
France:
1945 February 18
Roosevelt, F.D.
Algeria,
Algiers
France:
1957 December 16-19
Eisenhower
Paris
France:
1959 September 2-4
Eisenhower
Paris
France:
1959 December 18-21
Eisenhower
Toulon, Paris
France:
1960 May 15-19
Eisenhower
Paris
France:
1961 May 31-June 3
Kennedy
Paris
France:
1969 February 28-
Nixon
Paris
March 1
France:
1970 November 12
Nixon
Paris
France:
1974 April 5-7
Nixon
Paris
France:
1974 December 14-16
Ford
Martinique
France:
1975 November 15-17
Ford
Rambouillet
27
COUNTRY VISITED
DATE OF VISIT
PRESIDENT
France:
1978 January 4-6
Paris, Normandy, Bayeux,
Carter
and Versailles
France:
1979 January 4-9
Guadeloupe
Carter
France:
1982 June 2-7
Paris
Reagan
France:
1982 June 5-6
Versailles
Reagan
Germany:
Potsdam
1945 July 16-August 1
Truman
Germany, Federal Republic of:
1959 August 26-27
Bonn
Eisenhower
Germany, Federal Republic of:
1963 June 23-26
Bonn, Cologne, Frankfurt,
Kennedy
Wiesbaden, Berlin
Germany, Federal Republic of:
1967 April 23-26
Johnson
Bonn
Germany, Federal Republic of:
1969 February 26-27
Nixon
Cologne, Bonn, Berlin
Germany, Federal Republic of:
1975 July 26-28
Ford
Bonn, Linz
Germany, Federal Republic of:
1978 July 13-15
Bonn, Wiesbaden-Erbenheim
Carter
Air Base, Frankfurt, Berlin
Germany, Federal Republic of:
1978 July 16-17
Bonn
Carter
28
COUNTRY VISITED
DATE OF VISIT
PRESIDENT
Poland:
1972 May 31-June 1
Warsaw
Nixon
Poland:
1975 July 28-29
Warsaw, Krakow
Ford
Poland:
1977 December 29-31
Warsaw
Carter
Portugal:
Lisbon
1960 May 19-20
Eisenhower
Portugal:
1971 December 13-14
The Azores,
Nixon
Terceira Island
Portugal:
1974 June 18-19
The Azores,
Nixon
Lajes Field
Portugal:
1980 June 26
Lisbon
Carter
Romania:
Bucharest
1969 August 2-3
Nixon
Romania:
1975 August 2-3
Bucharest, Sinaia
Ford
Saudi Arabia:
1978 January 3-4
Riyadh
Carter
Spain:
1959 December 21-22
Madrid
Eisenhower
Spain:
1970 October 2-3
Madrid
Nixon
36
WASHINGTON POST June 2, 1988
ALL THE PRESIDENT'S TRAVELS
PRESIDENT REAGAN'S TRIPS ABROAD
1981
Mexico, Jan. 5: met with President Jose Lopez Portillo.
Canada, March 10-11: met with Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau.
Canada, July 19-21: Economic Summit. !
Mexico, Oct. 21-24: International Meeting on Cooperation and Development.
1982
Jamaica, April 7: met with Prime Minister Edward Seaga, Gov. Gen. Florizel
Glasspole.
Barbados, April 8: met with officials from Barbados, Antigua, Barbuda,
Dominica, St. Kitts-Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
France, June 3-6: Economic Summit; also met with President Francois
Mitterrand, Prime Minister Pierre Mauroy, Paris Mayor Jacques Chirac.
Italy, June 7: met with Pope John Paul II in the Vatican and with Italian
government officials in Rome.
Britain, June 8-9: met with Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip and Prime Minister
Margaret Thatcher.
West Germany, June 10-11: met with President Karl Carstens, Chancellor
Helmut Schmidt and NATO Secretary General Josef Luns of the Netherlands.
Mexico, Oct. 8: met with president-elect Miguel de la Madrid.
Central and South America, Nov. 30-Dec. 4: visited Brazil, Colombia, Costa
Rica, Honduras and met with officials in each country.
1983
Mexico, Aug. 14: met with President de la Madrid.
Japan, Nov. 9-12: met with Emperor Hirohito, Prime Minister Yasuhiro
Nakasone.
South Korea, Nov. 12-14: met with President Chun Doo Hwan.
WASHINGTON POST
June 2, 1988
1984
China, April 26-May 1: met with senior leader Deng Xiaoping, President Li
Xiannian, Premier Zhao Ziyang, General Secretary Hu Yaobang.
Ireland, June 1-4: met with Prime Minister Garret FitzGerald.
Britain, June 4-10: Economic Summit.
France, June 6: visited Normandy, met with President Mitterrand.
1985
Canada, March 17-18: met with Prime Minister Brian Mulroney.
West Germany, May 1-6: Economic Summit; also visited Bitburg war cemetery.
Spain, May 6-8: met with King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia, Prime Minister
Felipe Gonzalez.
France, May 8: met with European Parliament President Pierre Pflimlin.
Portugal, May 8-10: met with President Antonio Eanes, Prime Minister Mario
Soares.
Switzerland, Nov. 16-20: first meeting with a Soviet leader, General Secretary
Mikhail Gorbachev; also met with Swiss President Kurt Furgler.
Beigium, Nov. 29: reported on U.S. Soyiet summit to officials from NATO
countries.
1986
Mexico, Jan. 3: met with President de la Madrid.
Grenada, Feb. 20: met with officials from Grenada, Antigua, Barbados,
Dominica, Jamaica, St. Kitts-Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines,
Trinidad-Tobago.
Indonesia, April 20-May 2: met with officials from Indonesia, the Philippines,
Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand
Japan, May 2-7: Economic Summit.
Iceland, Oct. 10-11: second meeting with General Secretary Gorbachev.
1987
Canada, April 5-6: met with Prime Minister Brian Mulroney.
Italy, June 6-10: met with Pope John Paul II at the Vatican; Economic Summit
in Venice.
West Germany, June 12: met with Chancellor Helmut Kohl, Preident Richard
von Weizsaecker, Bundestag President Philip Jenninger and West Berlin Mayor
Eberhard Diepgen.
1988
Mexico, Feb. 13: met with President de la Madrid.
Belgium, March 1-3: met with Belgian officials and representatives from the
NATO countries.
SOURCE: The White House
PRESIDENT REAGAN'S TRIPS ABROAD (cont.)
1988
Finland, May 25-28
Soviet Union, May 29-June 2: fourth meeting with General Secretary
Gorbachev
Great Britain, June 2-3: met with Prime Minister Thatcher
Canada, June 19-21: Economic Summit in Toronto
Dams in
The vulnerability of the Netherlands
The Delta Project
Over half of the Netherlands lies below sea level. Just how
The outcome of this determination was the Delta Project.
the Delta
vulnerable the country is to flooding was demonstrated on the
The Project's principal goal was to improve the safety of the
night of 1 February 1953. The combination of a spring tide
southwest Netherlands by considerably shortening and re-
and a persistent, violent northwesterly storm recreated on a
inforcing the coastline. It was decided that dams should be
particularly large scale an event which happened many
constructed across inlets and estuaries, considerably reducing
1
times over the centuries. Waves destroyed the dykes and the
the possibility of the sea surging into the land once more.
sea rushed into the polders. The results were catastrophic:
Freshwater lakes would form behind them. Roads along the
1,835 people drowned and many thousands of cows, horses,
dams would improve access to the islands of Zeeland and
pigs and chickens were killed. The floods destroyed 47,000
South Holland. Dams could not be constructed across the New
homes, as well as schools, churches and other buildings. Appro-
Waterway or the Western Scheldt, as these important shipping
ximately 500 kilometres of dykes were completely or partially
routes to the seaports of Rotterdam and Antwerp had to be
destroyed and 200,000 hectares of land was flooded. The har-
kept open. The safety of these areas was to be guaranteed by
des hit areas were the province of Zeeland, the southern part
substantially reinforcing the dykes.
of South Holland and the western part of North Brabant.
The Delta Project is one of the largest hydraulic engineering
The bewilderment and shock felt by people in the rest of the
projects that has ever been carried out anywhere in the world.
Netherlands when they learnt of the extent of the flooding
New hydraulic engineering techniques were gradually develop-
soon gave way to determination, and great efforts were made
ed for the construction of the eleven dams and barriers of
to reseal the breached dykes. The last breach, near Ouwerkerk
various sizes which were built over a period of thirty years.
on Schouwen-Duiveland, was resealed at the beginning of
November 1953. Rarely have the people of the Netherlands
In the early 1970s the realization grew that it was important tc
been so united as when they decided that such a catastrophe
preserve as much of the natural environment as possible, and
should never happen again.
this point of view has left its mark on the Delta Project. As a
result the original plans were changed: not all of the inlets,
3
distributaries and estuaries between the Western Scheldt and
the New Waterway have been transformed into freshwater
lakes as was initially intended; there are now very distinct
water systems, each with its own characteristic function.
You can now drive along the roads constructed on top of the
dams and visit all the major Delta works and water systems in
a single day. It does not matter where your journey begins or
which direction you take. There is no systematic route one
6
could follow to visit the dams and barriers in the same
sequence in which the project was carried out. Yet the Delta
Project was carried out in anything but a random order. Work
began on the relatively simpler parts, so that the experience
gained could be used during the construction of larger, more
2
difficult dams across inlets and estuaries with strong tidal cur-
rents. That was how the Delta works progressed: new hydrau-
lic engineering techniques were first applied on a small scale
and then used in the larger projects.
The last dam in the Delta Project was completed in the
spring of 1987 and lies at the junction of the provinces of
Zeeland, North Brabant and South Holland. Its completion
marked the end of thirty years' construction work on a chain
of dams and other hydraulic engineering works to protect
the southwest Netherlands from flooding.
The Hollandse IJssel
The Veerse Meer
The Grevelingenmeer
Engineers from the Public Works Department first turned
After the storm surge barrier in the Hollandse IJssel was
The construction of the Grevelingen dam (completed in
their attention to the Hollandse IJssel, a river with an open
completed, a start was made on the first major dams in the
1965) entailed a more extensive use of the seabed protec-
passage to the sea via the Nieuwe Maas. A storm surge bar-
turbulent tidal inlets. In line with the principle of working
tion techniques that had been tested in the Zandkreek and
rier was built at Krimpen to protect one of the lowest lying
from small to large, the first project was the Three Islands
the Veerse Gat. The six-kilometre dam between Schouwen-
and most densely populated areas of the Netherlands.
Project, which entailed the construction of dams in the
Duiveland and Goeree-Overflakkee crosses the channels on
Under normal conditions, the gates of the barrier, which
Zandkreek between North and South Beveland and in the
either side of the Oude Tong sandbar. The section on the
was completed in 1958, are raised 12 metres above the
Veerse Gat between North Beveland and Walcheren. During
sandbar itself was built by pumping sand onto it. The sou-
waterlevel, so that there is no obstruction to shipping. If the
the construction of the Zandkreek dam asphalt was used for
thern channel was dammed using the same type of small
tide rises to a dangerously high level, the gates can be lowe-
the first time to cover the sill which would support the cais-
caissons that had been used in the Zandkreek dam, but a
red to dam the river. A lock allows ships to travel up or
sons, huge concrete structures which can be positioned
new technique was developed for the larger channel to the
downstream when the barrier is closed.
quickly to dam the tidal inlet. The Zandkreek dam was com-
north: a cableway was spanned across the channel and cable
pleted in 1960.
cars tipped stone into the water.
The seven caissons used a year later to dam the Veerse Gat
A substantial part of the dam built across the Brouwersha-
were even larger. Sluices in the caissons allowed the tide to
vense Gat, which forms the western boundary of the Greve-
ebb and flow without obstruction. This prevented the cur-
lingenmeer, was also constructed on sandbars using the
rent from becoming too strong while the mouth of the
pumping method. The northern channel was dammed with
channel was gradually being dammed. When all seven were
sluice caissons. These remained open until the dam in the
in position the steel sluice gates were closed simultaneously
southern channel, which was constructed using a cableway,
and the caissons filled with sand. A substantial part of the
had risen well above the water level. Then the sluice gates
dam had already been built on a sandbar in the Veerse Gat
were closed and the dam across the two tidal channels was
by pumping sand onto it. The Veerse Meer, the lake formed
completed using sand.
after the dam was completed, is partly brackish due to dilu-
tion by rainwater. Land that has been reclaimed is now used
The Brouwers dam was completed in 1971, and the area
for farming or recreational purposes and a few sandbars
behind it is now a lake, the Grevelingenmeer. The loss of the
have been left entirely to nature.
tide and the gradual reduction in the salt content of the
water led to the death of many plants and animals. Within a
few years, though, nature adapted to the new conditions.
After a sluice had been constructed in the Brouwers dam to
allow water to flow between the Grevelingenmeer and the
North Sea, the lake developed into a very valuable area for
nature conservation, the fishing industry and recreational
purposes. A sluice has also been constructed in the Grevelin-
gen Dam and the Grevelingenmeer can be 'flushed' with
water from the North Sea to keep the salt and oxygen con-
tent high.
The Haringvliet
The Eastern Scheldt
The Storm Surge Barrier
The Volkerak dam separates the Hollandsch Diep and the
While the Haringvliet dam and the Brouwers dam were nea-
A compromise was reached in 1976: a storm surge barrier,
Haringvliet from the southern part of the Delta and pre-
ring completion, preparations had already begun for the
which would stay open under normal conditions but which
vents fresh water from the Rhine and the Maas flowing
construction of the dam across the mouth of the Eastern
could be closed at very high tides. The construction of the
southward. The Volkerak dam, completed in 1965, comprises
Scheldt, the last, largest and also most complex part of the
storm surge barrier meant a break with the policy that the
the Hellegatsplein, a dam extending to Goeree-Overflakkee
Delta Project. Three islands were constructed: Roggenplaat,
Public Works Department and the hydraulic engineering
and a second dam with a large lock complex extending in
Neeltje Jans and Noordland. A pumped sand dam was built
contractors in the Netherlands had pursued in working from
the direction of North Brabant. A road bridge has been built
between the latter two. In the remaining channels the first
small to large and from relatively simple to complex. The
from the Hellegatsplein to the Hoekse Waard. The dam to
steel towers were built for the cableway, as it was planned
storm surge barrier needed expertise that had yet to be
Goeree-Overflakkee was built with pumped sand. Twelve
to dam the Eastern Scheldt using this well-tried method.
developed and experience that had yet to be gained. Exten-
sluice caissons were needed to dam the southeastern chan-
Its completion date was set for 1978.
sive research was carried out to determine the feasibility of
nel.
building the storm surge barrier, taking full account of the
At the end of the 1960s however protests were voiced
interests of the environment, flood protection, and the
The Haringvliet dam on the western side of the Haringvliet
about the project. Scientists became aware of the special
fishing and shipping industries.
has two purposes. It must not only protect the waters
significance of the flora and fauna in and around the
The actual construction of the storm surge barrier also had
inland from high tides, but must also discharge excess water
Eastern Scheldt. The sandbars and mud flats exposed at low
to be thoroughly studied. The solution was a barrier consis-
from the Rhine and the Maas. The construction of the
tide are important feeding grounds for birds, and the
ting of pre-fabricated concrete and steel components that
4.5 kilometre Haringvliet dam therefore began with the
estuary is a nursery for fish from the North Sea. Fishermen
were assembled in the three channels at the mouth of the
building of a large sluice complex. The 17 sluices can
and action groups made sure that the scientific findings
Eastern Scheldt. 65 colossal concrete piers from the barrier's
discharge an enormous volume of water. Closing or opening
were heard by the government and parliament. A heated
backbone. A stone sill and a concrete sill beam were placed
the sluices determines how much water has to be dischar-
debate flared up. Opponents of the dam believed that the
between each of the piers, and the openings could be closed
ged by the alternative route via the New Waterway. By
safety of the region could be guaranteed by raising the
with steel gates. Concrete box girders were placed on top of
channelling as much water as possible through the New
height of the dykes along the Eastern Scheldt. The inlet
the piers to form a road deck.
Waterway to the North Sea, saltwater is prevented from
would then remain open and saline. The equally vigorous
penetrating deep inland and making the groundwater
supporters of the solid dam, for example agricultural and
The seabed also needed special consideration. A new techni-
saline. The sluice complex in the Haringvliet dam is called
water boards, appealed to the emotions of the Zeelanders,
que was required to prevent the strong current in the
the 'tap of the Netherlands' because of its vital significance
asking whether the consequences of the flood disaster of
mouth of the river from washing away the sand on which
to the country's water management. The channel on the
1953, had already been forgotten.
the piers were to stand. The solution was to place the piers
southern side of the discharge sluices was dammed with
on mattresses filled with graded layers of sand and gravel
sand, and that on the northern side using the cableway
which would allow water to flow through but trap the sand.
method. The dam was completed in 1971. There is now no
tide in the Haringvliet and it consist entirely of freshwater.
The Zoommeer
The Monument
The construction of the storm surge barrier also required
The storm surge barrier has narrowed the mouth of the
The place where the Philips dam joins up with the Grevelin-
the development of special equipment. The 'Mytilus' made
Eastern Scheldt, and less water now enters and leaves the
gen dam is typical of the Delta works. It is a point where
its appearance in the estuary to compact the seabed, follo-
estuary with the tide. Special measures had to be taken to
three different water systems meet: the saltwater Grevelin-
wed by the 'Jan Heijmans' which laid asphalt and dumped
ensure that this reduction in tidal movement would not lead
stones, the 'Cardium' which positioned the mattress, the
genmeer, the freshwater Krammer/Volkerak and the estuary
to a serious reduction in the difference between the high
of the Eastern Scheldt, each with its own environment and
'Ostrea' to lift, transport and position the piers and the
and low water levels. Partly for this reason two dams were
its own function. The concrete anchor block, which was part
mooring and cleaning pontoon 'Macoma'. These are very
built in the Eastern Scheldt inland of the storm surge barrier.
of the cableway used in the construction of the Grevelingen
special ships designed for just one purpose: to construct the
These reduced the area of the estuary and ensured an ade-
dam, has been left as a monument to the new hydraulic
storm surge barrier. New measuring instruments and com-
quate tidal range despite the construction of the storm
engineering techniques that have been developed. The
puter programs were also developed, so that engineers
surge barrier. Behind these two dams, the Oester dam and
dams themselves symbolise the safety that the Delta Project
working 30 to 40 metres below the surface could position
the Philips dam, an area of fresh water has formed with a
has brought to the southwest Netherlands.
components with such precision that the maximum error
permanent water level, the long Krammer/Volkerak and the
would be just one centimetre.
Zoommeer. Another reason for constructing the Oester and
More Information
Philips dams was that shipping on this important route
The Cardium laid the first mattress in November 1982 and
would no longer be affected by tidal movements. Further-
the Ostrea placed the first pier in August 1983. Work pro-
A permanent exhibition on the Delta Project and the history
more, these dams prevent fresh water from entering the
gressed quickly. There were virtually no technical setbacks;
of flood defences in the Netherlands - the Delta Expo -
salt water of the Eastern Scheldt. The size of the Zoommeer
only the cost turned out to be higher than expected. The
is housed in the Topshuis on the island Neeltje Jans in the
was reduced by the completion of the Markiezaat dyke in
mouth of the Eastern Scheldt.
storm surge barrier was 30% more expensive than estima-
1983 and a canal was excavated to discharge excess fresh
ted. On 4 October 1986 Her Majesty Queen Beatrix officially
water from the lake into the Western Scheldt. The protec-
Colophon
opened the storm surge barrier. The Eastern Scheldt has
tion provided by the storm surge barrier allowed the Oester
remained open and flood protection has been achieved. On
dam and the Philips dam to be constructed entirely of sand.
Ministry of Transport and Public Works
average the barrier has to be closed once a year because of
Tidal currents in the estuary can largely be eliminated by
Information Division
storms.
closing the barrier's gates. The Oester dam was completed
Plesmanweg 5 - Den Haag
in 1986 and the Philips dam in the following year. The Phi-
june 1988
lips dam has an unusual lock complex with a salt/freshwater
separation system that prevents salt water entering the
Design: Dijkerman & van Waarden, Den Haag
freshwater lake and fresh water entering the Eastern
Scheldt whenever a ship passes through the locks.
Photography: Aerocamera, Bart Hofmeester
Ref.
JX1705
d States Department of State
A26
Jan. 1989
WH
Key Officers
of
Foreign Service Posts
Guide for
Business Representatives
January 1989
22 EQUATORIAL GUINEA-FIJI
FINLAND-FRANCE 23
EQUATORIAL GUINEA
FINLAND
MALABO (E), Calle de Los Ministros; P.O. Box 597; Tel 2406, 2507;
HELSINKI (E), Itainen Puistotie 14A, SF-00140; APO NY 09664;
Workweek: Monday-Friday
Tel [358] (0) 171931; Telex 121644 USEMB SF; Commercial Section
Telex 125541
RSO: George Rodman
AMB: Chester E. Norris, Jr.
(resident in Yaonde)
AMB: Rockwell A. Schnabel
POL/ECO: Carl F. Troy
ADM: Ruth L. Willow
AID:
Jay P. Johnson
ADM/CON: George W. Indyke, Jr.
DCM: Michael L. Durkee
(resident in Yaounde)
RSO: James W. Holt
POL: William J. Kushlis
AGR: Gordon S. Nicks
ECO: Lawrence E. Butler
(resident in Stockholm)
COM: Kenneth L. Norton
PAO: William P. Kiehl
ETHIOPIA
LAB: John P. Fernandez
ODA: Col William A. J. Mackie
ADDIS ABABA (E), Entoto St.; P.O. Box 1014; Tel [251] (01) 551002;
CON: Elo-Kai Ojamaa
USAF
Telex 21282
AID: Willard J. Pearson
FRANCE
CHG: Robert G. Houdek
RSO: (Vacant)
DCM: Robert C. Frasure
(resident in Nairobi)
PARIS (E), 2 Avenue Gabriel, 75382 Paris Cedex 08; APO NY 09777;
ECO/POL: Sharon K. Mercurio
LAB: Harry J. O'Hara
Tel [33] (1) 42-96-12-02, 42-61-80-75; Telex 650221 AMEMB
POL: Ken Foster
(resident in Nairobi)
ADM: Gregory W. Engle
AMB: (Vacant)
W. Dennis Melton
SCI:
Allen L. Sessons
IRS:
DCM: Mark C. Lissfelt
CON: Carol Rose
(resident in Riyadh)
AGR: Herbert F. Rudd
POL: Peter Semler
PAO: John T. Burns
PAO: Charles E. Courtney
ECO: William H. Edgar
CUS: George C. Corcoran, Jr.
FIN: T. Whittier Warthin
ODA: Radm Norman Campbell
FIJI
COM: James A. Moorhouse
USN
LAB: John J. Muth
SUVA (E), 31 Loftus St.; P.O. Box 218; Tel [679] 314-466 314069;
ODC: Col Richard J. Beauregard
CON: Donald K. Parsons
USAF
Telex 2255 AMEMBASY FJ
ADM: Bruce W. Clark
FAA: Robert T. Francis II
RSO: Robert P. Nicholson
RSO:
William D. Clarke
IRS:
William Connett
AMB: Leonard Rochwarger
(resident in Canberra)
DCM: Michael P. Owens
AID: John B. Woods
POL: Robert A. Benzinger
PAO: Robert B. Laing
ECO: Glen B. Miller
ODA: Capt John S. Baldwin USA
CON: Patricia A. Murphy
(resident in Wellington)
ADM: Craig S. Tymeson
IMPORTANT: See page viii for Accepted Forms for
Addressing Mail. Also see inside back cover for
Telephoning a Foreign Service Post.
FRANCE-GABON 25
24 FRANCE
US MISSION TO THE ORGANIZATION FOR ECONOMIC
MARSEILLE (CG), 12 Boulevard Paul Peytral, 13286
COOPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT (USOECD),
Marseille Cedex; APO NY 09777; Tel (33) (91) 549-200;
19 Rue de Franqueville, 75016 Paris; APO New York 09777; Tel
Telex 430597
[33] (1) 45-24-74-77; Telex 643964 F
CG:
R. Susan Wood
ECO/COM: (Vacancy)
CON: Jay T. Smith
US REP: Amb. Denis Lamb
DCM: Richard E. Hecklinger
STRASBOURG (CG), 15 Ave. D'Alsace; 67082 Strasbourg
ECON/FIN: John Lange
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The Delta Project
preserving the environment
and securing Zeeland against flooding
ill
R
The
-08
11 14
/10
10 12
1013
11.13
40606
08 11
/10
-
08
08 10
if
STATE
08 11
07 08
07 08
0808
12-14
05 06 05 06
PIT
to
0
06 05
17
06 07
05 07
And
©
1 The Hollandsche IJssel storm flood barrier, 1958
2 Zandkreek Dam, 1960
3 Veerse Gat Dam, 1961
4 Grevelingen Dam, 1965
5 Volkerak Dam, 1969
6 Haringvliet Dam, 1971
7 Brouwers Dam, 1971
8 Oosterschelde Dam, 1986
9 Philips Dam, 1986
10 Markiezaatskade quay, 1983
11 Oesterdam, 1986
12 Bathse drainage canal, 1987
CARDIUM
35'
FV ABI
30'
13)
FP ABI
45'
40'
The Delta Project
preserving the environment
and securing Zeeland against flooding
3
A permanent struggle
The Netherlands is locked in a permanent
At the end of the last ice age, around 10,000
struggle for survival. The country's name is
years ago, the North Sea was formed and the
self-explanatory: large areas of the Nether-
area we now know as the Netherlands came
lands lie below sea level. Stronger dykes,
into existence as marshland. The region was
dams and dunes are continually being con-
uninhabitable for many centuries, but with the
structed to keep the sea at bay and to ensure
passage of time peat bogs formed and people
that this densely-populated country remains
settled on the higher dunes, where they hun-
habitable. Half of the Netherlands would be
ted, fished and practised a little farming. They
flooded if it were not for the line of defences
also built embankments to live on during
that has been built over the centuries and the
periods of high spring tides. The first roads,
equipment to pump ground water and river
canals and harbours were built by the Romans.
water out of the low-lying polders.
The first dykes were built in the 10th century,
and with them the defence of the land turned
The struggle is just as pressing today. The
into a counterattack against the sea. Dykes
Netherlands is sinking in relation to sea level at
were constructed to protect existing land from
a rate of 20 centimetres per century. Not only is
floods, and also to reclaim new areas from the
the ground settling, but sea level is also rising as
sea, the polders. Reclaiming land was a profit-
the temperature of the earth increases, causing
able means of investing money that had been
the polar icecaps to melt. Human activities such
made in commerce and shipping.
as burning coal, oil and gas produce carbon
dioxide, creating the greenhouse effect and
The clergy in particular supported the creation
causing the temperature of the earth to
of new polders. The tools were very simple, no
increase ever faster.
more than spades and baskets, and the first
dykes were low embankments that were easily
breached by the sea. Excess water in the pol-
ders was an additional problem and sluices had
to be constructed to discharge it into the sea at
low tide. With the invention of the windmill
around 600 years ago, it became possible to
keep increasingly deeper polders dry. Further-
more, the mills could pump large ponds and
lakes dry so that even more new land could be
reclaimed. The dykes, however, remained a
primitive form of protection, built according to
traditional methods. It was not until the 19th
century that new materials, techniques and
tools such as concrete, stone embankments and
steam-engines appeared.
The Dutch fight a
constant war against the
rivers and the sea
Large ponds and lakes
are drained with
windmills
4
Countless floods
The flood disaster of
The sea has had many opportunities in the past
1953 claimed 1,835 lives
to determine the shape of the Netherlands. The
line of coastal defences shows where the water
overpowered the people. Every century has
witnessed floods. Many were given names, for
example the Saint Aechten's Day Flood in 1288,
the Saint Elizabeth's Day Floods in 1404 and
1421, the Saint Felix's Day Flood in 1530 and
All Saints' Day Flood in 1570. Although the
Dutch fought back, they often had to surrender
large areas of land to the sea. The Verdronken
Land van Saeftinghe (Zeeland Flanders), the
Verdonken Land van Reimerswaal (South Beve-
land) and Zuidland (Schouwen-Duiveland), for
example, were all lost to the sea. On balance,
during the past centuries more land has been
lost than reclaimed.
Floods have not been confined to particular
periods or enabled to occur only by the limita-
tions of technology. They have also occurred in
the 20th century, for instance in 1906 and
1916. The greatest flood disaster in the coun-
try's history occurred on the night of 1 February
1953. The sea surged into many polders in the
southwest Netherlands, innundating some
200,000 cows, horses, pigs and other livestock
200,000 hectares of fertile farmland and flood-
died and over 47,000 buildings were damaged.
ing many towns and villages. The dykes were
destroyed in 67 places and breached in over
The dykes had not been equal to the unprece-
400. 1,835 people drowned and 72,000 were
dentedly high water level of 4 to 5 metres
forced to evacuate the region; more than
above AOD (Amsterdam Ordnance Datum,
mean sea level as defined for Amsterdam). The
flood was caused by a spring tide, when excep-
tionally low and high tides are produced as the
influences of the sun and moon reinforce each
other, in combination with a persistent north-
westerly storm. The storm reached its peak in
the middle of the night, and an hour of continu-
ous wind force 12 coincided with the high tide.
The water piled up against the dykes, spilled
over the top of them and then began to wash
them away. Most people were asleep when the
sea overtook them.
A great deal of assistance was offered from
abroad. The people of the Netherlands were
determined not to surrender the flooded land.
Their thoughts first turned to repairing the
damage and then to preventing a reoccurrence
of such a disaster. They quickly resealed the
The dikes break in many
dykes and pumped the water out of the pol-
Astronomical tides
VLISSINGEN
places
ders. The experience they had gained in
5m
pumping the island of Walcheren dry after the
4m
bombing of its dykes in 1944, in damming the
3m
Brielse Maas in 1950 and in damming the
2m
Braakman inlet in 1952 proved invaluable.
1m
Caissons, large watertight concrete structures,
N.A.P.
were indispensable as a means of blocking off
1m
the channels quickly. The last breach, near
2m
Ouwerkerk, was resealed in November 1953.
3m
0
4
8
12
16
20
0
4
8
12
16
20
0
4
8
12 UUR
31 JANUARI
1 FEBRUARI
2 FEBRUARI
Graph showing changes in
water levels 1953
5
The attractions of delta regions
People have always been attracted to coastal
However, the human settlement, transporta-
regions. River estuaries in particular are obvious
tion, agriculture, fishing, trade and industry that
places for settlements; the river provides a
flourish due to the favourable conditions of the
communication route to the hinterland and also
delta are a threat to the ecosystem. The increa-
supplies alluvium that forms fertile soil. The
sing size of ships requires the dredging of
distributaries that branch from a river as it
deeper navigation channels and the construc-
approaches the sea often form a triangular
tion of larger harbours. Industry discharges
shape on the map. The mouth of the river Nile
waste into the water, and toxins discharged
in Egypt is a very good example of this. The
hundreds of kilometres upstream eventually
The mud flats are a
ancient Greeks called the mouth of the Nile a
settle with the alluvium at the mouth of the
feeding ground for
"delta" after the fourth letter of their alphabet,
wading birds
river. Human activities put the ecosystem under
which was written in the form of a triangle.
pressure. Since the beginning of the 1970s there
Nowadays the term delta is widely used to
has been a growing awareness that this pres-
describe many areas where a river enters a sea
sure cannot continue to increase unabated and
or a lake. Apart from the Nile, other famous
that a balance needs to be struck between the
deltas include those of the Ganges, the Missis-
interests of ecology and the economy.
sippi, the Rhone and the Yangtze. In the south-
west Netherlands the estuaries of the Rhine,
Maas and Scheldt also form a delta.
Low, flat deltas are vulnerable regions, and the
inhabitants have good cause to construct dykes
and embankments to protect themselves
against the sea. As villages and towns flourish,
though, and their economic importance as
centres of trade, shipping and industry
increases, the need to construct better forms of
protection also increases.
Deltas often provide many of the conditions
needed to support a rich and varied system of
plant and animal communities. Algae and plants
grow in the shallow, relatively warm water,
which light can penetrate easily. Their growth
and the supply of organic matter from the sea
and minerals from the river enable deltas to act
as nurseries for young fish. The driving force
behind the delta's ecosystem is the tide. The
regular exposure of mud flats and sandbars at
low tide and their submergence at high tide is
indispensable to the innumerable shellfish,
Birds abound in the
worms and other fauna that live on them. These
Dutch delta
in turn are essential to the thousands of birds
Food chain in the
that feed on them at low tide. The lower
Eastern Scheldt
animals and birds form a small food chain, one
The oyster, a popular
of the many that exist in the water, the mud
elicacy from the waters
flats and the higher-lying salt marshes.
of the delta
6
Securer flood defences
Shortly after the 1953 flood a specially
In 1958, Parliament passed the Delta Act, which
appointed committee presented proposals for
set out plans to ensure the safety of the south-
the prevention of another disaster in the
west Netherlands, to the great enthusiasm of
future. The proposals centred on improving
the public. In addition to reducing the risk of
safety by strengthening the coastal defences. A
flooding by increasing the height of the dykes
proposal to shorten the length of the coastline
and shortening the coastline by 700 kilometres,
was enthusiastically received, as, after all, the
the Delta Project would also create consider-
strength of a defensive line increases as its
able economic benefits. It would improve water
length decreases. This has been the principle
management in a large proportion of the
behind many other hydraulic engineering
Netherlands and combat the penetration of salt
works, an outstanding example of which is the
water into the ground water. Freshwater lakes
Barrier Dam which was constructed in 1932
would form and be an important source of
across the mouth of the Zuyder Zee, now called
water for farms. New recreational areas, parti-
the IJsselmeer, to protect it from the incursions
cularly for water sports, would be created. The
of the North Sea. By constructing this single
construction of dams would also considerably
dam, the length of the coastline was reduced
improve the road network in the southwest
by 300 kilometres and the danger of flooding in
Netherlands.
a large area of the country was entirely elimi-
nated.
One of the Project's drawbacks was that the
The committee recommended that the tidal
saltwater fishing industry and the shellfish
channels in the Rhine, Maas and Scheldt Delta
farms would disappear. The oyster and mussel
should be dammed near the coast and that the
farms centred on the town of Yerseke were an
dykes along the sea and the rivers in the rest of
important source of income in the Eastern
the country should be raised to allow for a
Scheldt region, but would be destroyed after
water level of five metres above AOD at the
the inlets were dammed. Shellfish cultivation
Hook of Holland. This would reduce the fre-
would have to be transferred to other areas. In
quency of inland flooding to an average of
those days very little consideration was paid to
once every ten thousand years and flooding in
the environment; flood protection and the
the inlets to once every four thousand years,
economy were the main issues.
which seemed quite safe enough for the time
being. The New Waterway and the Western
Scheldt had to be kept open to shipping due to
their economic importance to the ports of
Rotterdam and Antwerp. The surrounding
dykes would therefore also be raised to the
same height as those in the Delta.
The sea walls must be
able to hold back water
levels of 5 meters +
Normal Amsterdam Level
(NAP)
Oyster beds in Yerseke
New water sport areas
created by the Delta Plan
7
Fewer dykes
The original plans for the Delta Project entailed
the construction of huge dams in four tidal
inlets, the Veerse Gat, the Eastern Scheldt, the
Brouwershavense Gat and the Haringvliet,
which would reduce the length of the sea-
dykes in the region from over 700 kilometres to
just 25 kilometres. In addition, three dams were
also planned further inland in the Volkerak,
Grevelingen and Zandkreek channels. The
Volkerak dam would separate the freshwater
and saltwater environments, and the dams in
the Grevelingen and Zandkreek would elimin-
ate uncontrollable currents in the tidal area.
The Krammer locks in the
Some unusual civil engineering structures
Philips Dam
would be needed for specific purposes. A storm
A birds eye view of the
surge barrier was to be built in the Hollandse
western delta area
IJssel to protect the low-lying but densely-
populated region of South Holland. A large
sluice complex was to be built in the Haringvliet
dam to discharge any excess water from the
Rhine and the Maas into the North Sea. Locks
were also to be built in several dams for
commercial ships and pleasure craft.
8
New techniques
The Delta Project was a challenge to Dutch
Prefabrication became a common technique
hydraulic engineers. It was evident that past
and in addition to new materials, new equip-
experience and existing techniques would not
ment was also very valuable. Sluice caissons
be sufficient to enable dams to be constructed
were developed. A cableway with gondolas was
across the wide and deep tidal channels. The
developed to tip stone into the channels.
tidal range in the Delta is approximately three
Hydrodynamic study techniques were refined
metres and the water flows in and out twice a
by developing laboratory tests. The computer
day with powerful currents shifting enormous
gradually made its entrance. Measuring techni-
quantities of sand. Weather conditions in the
ques and weather forecasts became more
estuaries are often unfavourable and North Sea
accurate. The Delta Project would take 25 years
storms produce powerful waves. New techni-
to complete. A new age was dawning for
ques had to be developed quickly so that the
hydraulic engineering.
Delta Project could be carried out.
The towering caissons were adapted and
improved. Man-made fibres were used for the
first time to protect the seabed and to clad the
dykes. The traditional seabed protection
method, which involved covering the seabed
with large osier mats made of willow wood and
weighted with stone, was gradually replaced.
Changes took place step by step. It was decided
Scale model in the hydro-
to implement the Delta Project by working
dynamic laboratory
from small to large so that technological
Model of storm flood
progress would keep pace with the growth in
barrier currents
experience.
The implementation of
the Delta Project
The storm surge barrier in the Hollandse IJssel
1958
The implementation of the Delta Project began
with the construction of a storm surge barrier
across the river the Hollandse IJssel, which
forms an open passageway to the sea via the
Nieuwe Maas. The barrier was built just to the
east of Rotterdam and completed in 1958. It
protects the lowest-lying region of the
Netherlands from flooding. The 80 metre wide
barrier consists of four piers towering over
44 metres above AOD, two gates suspended
between the piers, a shipping lock and a road
bridge. Under normal conditions the gates are
raised high above the water so as not to
impede shipping, but when the water level is
dangerously high they can be lowered,
effectively damming the river. When the
barrier is closed ships can pass through the
lock.
Storm flood barrier in
the Hollandse IJssel
10
The Zandkreek dam
1960
The Delta Project really got underway with the
construction of the dams. First on the agenda
was the Three Islands Project, which would
connect the islands of Walcheren, North
Beveland and South Beveland with each other.
Work began in 1959 on a dam with a lock
between North and South Beveland in the
Zandkreek channel. The 830 metre long dam
was constructed using caissons and completed
in May 1960. By this date the construction of
the dam across the Veerse Gat between
Walcheren and North Beveland was
progressing well. Around 70 million m³ of
water flowed through the Veerse Gat with each
tide.
The Zandkreek Dam
with lock
The Veerse Gat dam
1961
A new technique was needed to dam the
Veerse Gat. The usual caissons were adapt
and what are known as sluice caissons we
Veerse Gatdam
developed. Sluice caissons have sealable
The last caisson is almost
openings so that at first water can flow
place at the Veerse Gat
Dam
through them freely while a dam is being
constructed. Seven sluice caissons, each a
An open caisson being
high as a seven-storey building, were place
transported to the last
the 320 metre wide channel on a sill made
gap in the dike
tipped stone. The dam was completed in A
1961. The sluices were closed at slack wa
between low and high tide. The closure of
first inlet had been completed and a lake, t
Veerse Meer, had been created. A dyke wa
quickly laid over the caissons to finish th
work.
ITALIE
12
10
The Grevelingen dam
1965
A start had been made in 1958 on the six-
kilometre dam across the Grevelingen channel
between Schouwen-Duiveland and Goeree-
Overflakkee, which would ultimately
incorporate a lock and harbours near
Bruinisse. A substantial part of the dam was
constructed on the Oude Tonge sandbar using
the well-tried method of dredging sand. Two
channels remained open. The small southern
channel was dammed using solid caissons
placed on a sill constructed from new
materials - nylon and mastic asphalt. A new
method was used to dam the larger, northern
channel: a cableway with gondolas suspended
from steel cables nine centimetres thick was
spanned across the channel and used to
gradually dam it by tipping 170,000 tons of
Cableway above
stone. The dam was completed in 1965 and a
Grevelingen
road along the top opened to traffic.
assageway through the
Grevelingen Dam
Bulldozers and diggers
on the future
Grevelingen Dam
13
The Volkerak locks
The Volkerak dam
1969
Taking advantage of the new techniques, the
Volkerak channel between the Haringvliet and
Hollandsch Diep channels was dammed to
improve water management and the transport
network. The work, which commenced in
1957, consisted of a dam across the
Hellegatsplaten (a series of sandbars) and the
Hellegatsplein (an artificial island), a bridge
spanning the 1200 metres across the
Haringvliet, and a large lock and sluice
complex and a solid dam at the mouth of the
Volkerak. The dam across the Hellegatsplaten
and Hellegatsplein, the Hellegats dam, was
constructed entirely of sand. The Volkerak was
dammed in the spring of 1969 using 12 sluice
caissons. By that date the locks, built near the
town of Willemstad, were already being used
by ships on the busy Scheldt-Rhine shipping
route.
14
The Haringvliet dam
1971
It took 14 years to construct the Haringvliet
dam, which extends 4.5 kilometres between
Goeree and Voorne. A unique design was
developed as the dam had to remain open for
the purposes of water management and the
discharge of excess water from the Maas and
the Rhine: a sluice complex with a channel
width of 1,000 metres and a lock for fishing
boats. The 17 sluices can be closed with steel
gates on both the sea and the river side. The
gates were made in an excavated construction
site surrounded by an encircling dyke - similar
to a polder - in the middle of the Haringvliet.
The sluice complex temporarily functioned as
sluice caissons, and the dam was completed in
1970 by tipping 100,000 concrete blocks
using a cableway. A road built along the dam
was opened in 1971.
rench with Haringvliet
sluices under
construction
Drainage sluices in the
Haringvliet Dam
15
Brouwers Dam
Cableway at the
Brouwershavense Gat
The Brouwers dam
1971
The final rehearsal for the last part of the Delta
Project, the Eastern Scheldt, was the
construction of a dam across the 6.5 kilometre
wide and 30 metre deep Brouwershavense Gat
between Goeree and Schouwen. Work began in
1962 using various well-tried methods. Sand
dams were dredged on the shallow
Kabbelaarsbank and Middelplaten sandbars.
The northern channel, Springersdiep, was
dammed using sluice caissons, which had been
constructed in a special construction dock in
the Grevelingen. The southern channel, the
Brouwershavense Gat, was dammed using the
cableway method. The dam was completed at
the end of 1971, creating a new lake, the
Grevelingenmeer. A sluice was built into the
dam ten years after its completion in order to
flush the Grevelingenmeer with water from the
North Sea to keep the salt content of the lake at
an appropriate level.
16
The most difficult project
The Eastern Scheldt dam,
1986
According to the original plans the dam across
the mouth of the Eastern Scheldt inlet would
have been completed in 1978, 25 years after
the flood disaster. The construction of this
dam, extending eight kilometres between
Schouwen and North Beveland, would be the
most difficult part of the Delta Project. The
inlet had an average tidal range of three metres
and its deepest channel was 40 metres deep.
1,100 million m³ of water flowed through the
channels at each tide, considerably more than
the 350 million m³ that flowed through the
Brouwershavense Gat. Work commenced in
1967. The construction islands Roggenplaat,
Neeltje Jans and Noordland were built on
three shallow sandbars. Neeltje Jans and
Noordland were later linked to each other by a
three-kilometre dam.
Approximately five kilometres of the dam had
been completed by the end of 1973. Three
channels remained open, the Hammen, Schaar
van Roggenplaat and Roompot channels, with
a total width of three kilometres. According to
the plans they were to be dammed using the
cableway method and prefabricated concrete
blocks. Steel towers for the cableway had
already been erected in the channels, but they
were never to be used. There was an
increasing body of public opinion in the
Netherlands which felt that the Eastern Scheldt
should remain open to conserve the
environment and the fishing industry. Social
pressure forced though a radical change in the
Delta Project.
SCHOUWEN
HAMMEN
ROGGENPLAAT
SCHAAR VAN ROGGENPLAAT
NEELTJE JANS
DAMVAK GEUL
NOORDLAND
Roompot lock
ROOMPOT
Tidal channels
NOORD BEVELAND
and damextensions
in the Eastern
0
1500m
Scheldt
Increasing environmental
awareness
The technical progress that had been achieved
during the implementation of the Delta Project
had not occurred in isolation. There had been a
general and rapid growth in the economies of
the western industrialised nations. Standards of
living and levels of consumption had increased.
The growth of opportunities, knowledge and
power seemed to know no bounds. Cities were
expanding, the road network was growing
Sting-ray
constantly, communications links were bringing
far-away places closer to home and man was
walking on the moon. With its emphasis on
flood protection, increases in scale and the use
of the very latest techniques, the Delta Project
was a part of this era.
In the second half of the 1960s opinions about
the environment changed. There was a growing
awareness that the global assault on the envi-
ronment could have catastrophic results. The
idea gained ground that there had to be limits
to growth, and the optimistic view of the
future began to fade. This ultimately led to a
fresh approach being adopted for the Delta
Project. The construction of a solid dam across
the mouth of the Eastern Scheldt lost the
general support it had once commanded. If the
dam were built, the Eastern Scheldt would no
longer be a tidal inlet, the salt water would
become fresh and instead of rising and falling
with the tides the water level would be con-
stant. Moreover, the plant and animal commun-
ities would be transformed and the shellfish
would disappear. More and more people
realised that the Eastern Scheldt was an area of
exceptional value and became concerned about
the effects that damming the inlet would have
on the flora and fauna.
Scientists, nature conservationists and
fishermen spearheaded the protest against a
solid dam. Their alternative was to raise the
height of the surrounding dykes. Politicians
initially refused to consider the plans. They had
promised to dam the Eastern Scheldt, and they
would keep their word. The fight to keep the
Eastern Scheldt open, however, gradually
received wider support, even in political circles.
How people believed the inlet should be made
safe became a yardstick for measuring their
environmental awareness. The government
decided to commission a special committee to
perform a new study. In 1974 the committee
The Eastern Scheldt
recommended a compromise: the Eastern
estuary holds an
Scheldt should be kept open most of the time
abundance of lobster
but closed whenever there was a risk of flood-
Demonstration against
ing.
plans to seal off the
Eastern Scheldt
completely
Hermit crab
Seals return to the
Eastern Scheldt estuary
18
Unique wildlife area
The Eastern Scheldt is a rich and unique wildlife
The Eastern Scheldt is a nursery for fish such as
area. It is a tidal inlet entirely free of the in-
sole, cod, plaice and herring, which breed else-
fluence of freshwater rivers and is thus com-
where but grow in the tidal inlet, and also a
pletely saline. The tides generate fast-flowing
breeding ground for others such as gar,
currents as the water from the North Sea flows
anchovy and pout. There are over 75 different
into the inlet through channels up to 40 metres
species of fish in the inlet. The Eastern Scheldt
deep and two kilometres wide. Sandbars and
enjoys an international reputation for its bird-
shallows lie between the channels. In the more
life. Many thousands of birds rest there during
inland section of the Eastern Scheldt the chan-
migration or come to spend the winter, the
nels become narrower and shallower. The clean
summer or the breeding season. There is an
water, with its high salt content and relatively
abundance of food; the water is pure and rarely
warm temperature, provides unusual condit-
freezes in winter. The area is particularly impor-
ions.
tant for water birds. The Eastern Scheldt is
home to ducks, geese, oystercatchers, plovers
All kinds of plants and animals that usually live
and avocets. Many rare plants and animals live
only in more southerly climes can be found in
on the bed of the inlet. There are also mussels
the Eastern Scheldt. The ecosystem is highly
and oysters, which are economically very impor-
developed, with many organisms, both common
tant.
and uncommon. Many valuable species of flora
and fauna live on the stone and concrete-clad
dykes, for example lichens, snails, sea acorns,
sponges, anemones, crabs and starfish. There
are dozens of varieties of seaweed, including
some rare ones. The Eastern Scheldt is a rich
store of food, plankton being the most impor-
tant resource. A million tons of vegetation is
produced each year, most of which sinks to the
bottom where creatures living on the bed take
full advantage of it. In their turn, fish, crusta-
ceans and birds feed on the creatures living on
the bed.
irds on the salt marshes
Sea anemone
Mussels
19
Along the edges of the Eastern Scheldt there
are extensive mud flats, which appear to be
barren but are in fact teeming with life. Birds in
particular take advantage of them. Towards the
dykes, where the mud flats have gradually silted
up, salt marshes have formed. Saltwater plants
grow on the undulating land between the low
and high tide marks, which is drained by count-
The surface area of salt
less streams. Some sections of the salt marshes
marshes and mud flats in
the Eastern Scheldt
are so high that they are submerged only
estuary is reduced by the
during spring tides. There is a rich and colourful
storm flood barrier
diversity of plants. Glasswort and sea aster are
harvested for human consumption. A few of
the salt marshes are grazed by sheep. The salt
marshes form one of the few natural land-
scapes remaining in the Netherlands. This too is
one of the unique features of the Eastern
Scheldt.
20
The half-open dam
At the end of 1974 Parliament recognised the
importance of keeping the Eastern Scheldt
open and decided to change the plans for the
Delta Project. It was not an easy decision to
take and there were many opponents to it, so a
compromise had to be reached. The plan for a
solid dam was abandoned and the engineers
were requested to design a reliable method of
protection that would also preserve the valu-
able environment. A design for the half-open
dam had to be worked out subject to several
conditions: it had to be technically feasible; the
additional costs had to be kept to a minimum;
and the area around the Eastern Scheldt had to
be protected from flooding by 1985. The
hydraulic engineers were confronted with an
entirely new problem, one at the very limits of
their technical know-how. As there would no
longer be a dam by 1978, the government
provided funds to reinforce the weak dykes
Creation of pitchings on
bordering the inlet. The reinforcement of the
the dike
dykes considerably improved the safety of the
area before the new barrier was completed.
Pushing back the frontiers
The engineers' problem was to design and con-
placed in the three channels, Hammen, Schaar
struct a reliable, open barrier that would allow
van Roggenplaat and Roompot, and firmly
the tide to enter the Eastern Scheldt each day.
anchored with masses of stone, and 62 steel
Such a project had never been carried out
gates that could be raised or lowered would be
anywhere in the world. The knowledge and
placed between the piers. Under normal condit-
experience gained during the implementation
ions the gates would be raised SO that the tidal
of the previous parts of the Delta Project were
movement in the inlet would be largely
no longer sufficient and there was little time
retained, thus preserving the environment. The
available. Of the various solutions that were
gates would be lowered during storms when
proposed the engineers decided on a storm
exceptionally high waterlevels were expected,
surge barrier across the mouth of the Eastern
damming the Eastern Scheldt from the North
Scheldt. Parliament agreed to the project in
Sea and guaranteeing protection from flooding.
mid-1976. The idea behind the storm surge
barrier was simple: 65 concrete piers would be
As the storm surge barrier would reduce the
tide to some extent, it would be necessary to
compartmentalise the Eastern Scheldt by build-
Location of the
ing dams inland of the barrier. This would
compartimentalisation works
reduce the tidal area so as to maintain a suffic-
ient difference in level between high and low
tide, namely an average tidal range of 3.2
metres at Yerseke, which was important for the
fishing industry. It also guaranteed that the
Scheldt-Rhine shipping link would be non-tidal,
as the Netherlands government had promised
Belgium. Compartmentation had the additional
advantage of separating salt water from fresh
water, which was desirable for efficient envi-
ronmental conservation and water manage-
ment. Freshwater peripheral lakes were formed
behind the Philips dam in the northeast and the
Oester dam in the southeast. A discharge canal
was dredged, leading to the Western Scheldt,
to control the level and quality of these lakes.
For technical and environmental reasons a
further dyke was constructed near Bergen op
Zoom, which also created a new lake. The final
part of the compartmentation works made the
canal through South Beveland suitable for
pushed barges.
21
Step-by-step construction
The storm surge barrier was constructed step
The barrier is very heavy and the seabed had to
by step. Solid foundations were needed in the
be compacted to a depth of 15 metres using a
sandy bed of the Eastern Scheldt, where enor-
specially designed vessel, the Mytilus, to
mous quantities of sand are continuously being
increase its bearing capacity. The Mytilus drove
moved, changing the location of sandbars and
four steel tubes into the bed, which were
channels. The bed where the piers were to
vibrated to force water out from between the
stand had to be improved. The first operation
grains of sand, eliminating quicksand and thus
was to lay block mattresses made of concrete
strengthening the bed. It took three years to
blocks attached to polypropylene sheets to
compact the bed in this manner. Bed protec-
protect the seabed around the area where the
tion, improvement and depth compaction,
piers were to stand. At the site itself, clay strata
however, were not enough to ensure that the
were were dredged out and replaced with sand
piers could be placed safely. A foundation had
covered with a layer of gravel to prevent it
to be constructed on the reinforced bed to
from being scoured out during storms.
prevent the sand from being washed away and
to guarantee that the piers would stand evenly.
The Mytilus sea-bed
compression vessel
22
Polypropylene mattresses
Polypropylene mattresses filled with graded
layers of gravel were used in the foundations.
They were made at a factory that had been
specifically built for their production. Two kinds
of mattresses were made, lower mattresses 200
metres long, 42 metres wide and 36 centi-
metres thick, and upper mattresses measuring
Mat factory on the
Neeltje Jans artificial
60x31 metres. 65 mattresses of each kind were
island
needed. As the mattresses were produced in
the factory they were rolled onto huge floating
drums and then placed on a specially-designed
vessel, the Cardium, which laid them. The
seabed was first levelled using the extra-wide
suction nozzle on the bow of the Cardium
before the vessel rolled the mattresses into
position. It sounds a simple operation, but the
mattresses had to be laid with extreme preci-
sion, which is not so simple in a turbulent tidal
inlet. Furthermore, they could only be laid
during the short period of slack water between
low and high tide, which lasts for just one hour.
If a mattress had not been fully unrolled before
the tide turned, it would have been destroyed
by the force of the ebb tide. Fortunately, this
never occurred.
When the mattresses were being laid the
Cardium was assisted by another specially-
designed vessel, the Jan Heijmans. This vessel
held the ends of the mattresses in place and
sealed the seams between them with layers of
stone. The piers were placed 45 metres apart,
so there was a three-metre seam between
them and the 42 metre wide mattresses. Laying
the mattresses was a critical stage in the con-
struction of the storm surge barrier: it deter-
mined the evenness of the seabed and the
strength of the barrier.
he Cardium mat-laying
vessel with the
The mattresses are filled with graded layers of
lan Heijmans stone and
sand and gravel and act as filters, trapping the
asphalt tipper
sand in place on the seabed but allowing water
The Cardium rolls off
to flow through them. The mattresses were laid
a mat
quickly. In some sections a block mattress was
laid on top of them to smooth out any uneven-
ness. Another special mattress, a gravel ballast
mattress, was finally laid over the seams to
prevent the stone from being washed away.
The final result was a flat "carpet", more level
than most football pitches, across a 200 metre
section of the mouth of the Eastern Scheldt.
23
The backbone of the barrier
The 65 enormous piers from the backbone of
the barrier. They were constructed in three
large construction docks 15 metres deep, which
were kept dry by 320 underwater pumps. The
piers are colossal structures made of pre-
stressed concrete to keep their weight to a
minimum. They are 30 to 40 metres tall and
have a dry weight of up to 18,000 tons.
The height of the piers depended upon their
ultimate position in one of the channels.
A purpose-built factory produced 450,000 m³
of concrete over four years. The piers were
hollow and were filled with sand when they
Serial construction of
pillars
were in position. They are not featureless
monoliths but contain many notches and inden-
Pillars in a building dock
tations where the other concrete components
and the steel gates are attached. It took just
under one and a half years to construct each
pier. As all the piers had to be completed in
only four years, they were produced in stag-
gered batches with work beginning on a new
pier every two weeks. At the peak of activity 30
piers were being constructed simultaneously.
24
Unusual vessels
When all the piers in a construction dock were
Work on the piers was far from over once they
completed, the dock was flooded and the
had been placed. They still needed to be grou-
encircling dyke was opened so that they could
ted, which involved filling the space between
be transported to one of the channels in the
the foot of the pier and the foundation
mouth of the Eastern Scheldt. This operation
mattress with grout, a mixture of sand, cement
too required unusual vessels. The Ostrea was
and water, to achieve a perfect bond with the
designed and built to lift the piers in the con-
mattress. Once this operation was completed,
struction dock, transport them to the channels
the lower sections of the piers were filled with
and then place them with great precision on
sand to increase their stability. They were then
the mattresses. The Macoma was specially built
covered with a layer of concrete to protect
to moor the Ostrea while it was placing the
them from damage. The foot of the piers was
piers and to clean the site immediately before-
protected by stone/asphalt bags, each weighing
hand. The piers were positioned with pin-point
30 to 40 tons. These were necessary as each
accuracy at slack water using very sophisticated
pier had to be embedded in a sill made of
The Ostrea crane vessel
measuring equipment. It took a year to place
dumped stone.
and the Macoma
them all.
mooring and cleansing
pontoon shortly after a
pillar has been installed
The turn of the tide,
the right time to install
the pillars
Ten-ton stones
The sill increased the piers' stability and also
helped dam the mouth of the Eastern Scheldt
The ultimate intention was that only that part
of the barrier which could be closed by gates
was to remain open. The sill was constructed of
graded layers of stone. Lighter stones were
placed at the bottom and huge blocks weighing
as much as ten tons (10,000 kilogrammes) were
placed on top. These blocks have to be so heavy
in order to withstand the powerful currents
that would build up if one of the gates refused
to close during a storm. The largest stones
could not be dropped into position as the risk
of their damaging the piers was too great. The
Trias was therefore designed to lay the top
layer of stone. This vessel was equipped with a
large crane with a long extendable arm that
was used to place the heavy stones accurately.
Five million tons of stone were used in the con-
struction of the sill. It had to be imported over a
period of four years from Germany, Finland,
Sweden and Belgium as it was not available in
the Netherlands.
When the work on the foundations, the piers
and the underwater sill was finished, a large
part of the battle had been won, although
there was still a lot of work to be done to
complete the barrier. In order of assembly,
service ducts, pier capping units, gates, sill
beams and upper beams had to be installed.
Stone deposits at the
These are all indispensable components for the
edge of the storm flood
efficient operation of the storm surge barrier.
barrier
The concrete service duct, each section of
The Trias top-layer
which was 45 metres long, was placed on the
tipping vessel in action
piers by the floating crane Taklift 4. A major
road now runs over the top of the service duct,
The Taklift IV crane vessel
with a road bridge box
while part of the space inside it has been used
girder in its hoist
to house the operating and control equipment
for the gates.
Ever increasing currents
The capping units were made of prestressed
concrete and were installed to increase the
height of the piers to accommodate the gate
structure. The height of the 124 upper members
varies from 4.3 to 10 metres and their weight
from 250 to 450 tons. 62 concrete sill beams -
hollow box girders 39 metres long, 8 metres
wide and 8 metres high - were built in a con-
struction dock to connect the piers to each
other under water. After they had been posi-
tioned between the piers, thus reducing the
cross section of the channel and causing the
speed of the current to increase, they were
filled with sand. Above the water level the piers
were connected to each other by concrete
upper beams, which form the upper limit of the
opening in the barrier.
The steel gates were designed to hold back the
Between the dam and
waters of the North Sea during storms. Their
the pier lies a quarry
stone dam
height varies from 5.9 to 11.9 metres depending
upon their position in the barrier. The largest
nstallation of sill beams
gate, weighing 480 tons, is located in the
in trench
deepest channel, the Roompot. The gates were
The Taklift hangs a lock
installed between the piers using the Taklift 4.
hatch in place
When the gates are raised the Eastern Scheldt is
open and sufficient water can flow into it to
Positioning of lock
atches is precision work
ensure a tidal range of 3.2 metres at Yerseke,
the centre of the shellfish industry. That is just
over three-quarters of the original tidal range
and enough to preserve the existing wildlife
and the fishing industry.
27
Gates closed
The gates consist of plating and tubular steel
girders. The plating, which is on the Eastern
Scheldt side, needs to be just one centimetre
thick to withstand storms. The gates have been
designed to resist the loads caused by different
water levels on either side and can be raised or
lowered in fast flowing water under adverse
weather conditions. Each gate is opened or
closed with the aid of two hydraulic cylinders,
varying in length from 21.8 to 34.5 metres. The
gates can be moved at a speed of three milli-
metres per second, which means that it takes an
hour to open or close the largest gate.
The storm surge barrier is operated from the
Tops-huis, the central control building standing
high above the North Sea at some distance
from the barrier. On average the barrier has to
be closed once a year due to extremely high
water levels. The Tops-huis also accommodates
the Delta Expo, a permanent exhibition on
2,000 years of hydraulic engineering. On the
southern part of the Neeltje Jans construction
island the Roompot lock was built because ships
can no longer pass freely through the mouth of
The Ir. J.W. Tops-huis,
the Eastern Scheldt. A road has been built on a
the storm flood barrier
viaduct above the barrier.
service building
The storm flood barrier is
On 4 October 1986 Her Majesty Queen
completely computer-
Beatrix officially declared the storm surge
controlled
barrier in the Eastern Scheldt open.
Queen Beatrix opens the
Eastern Scheldt storm
flood barrier. Standing
with her are Transport
and Public Works
Minister Dr. Neelie Smit
(left) and
J. van Dixhoorn,
the Director General of
Public Works
zee
veilig
28
Other uses
The storm surge barrier was constructed to
provide greater protection from the sea and to
preserve the unique and valuable environment
of the Eastern Scheldt. This has largely deter-
mined how and when the barrier is operated,
and the steel gates will be kept open whenever
possible. In principle the barrier is closed only
when it is predicted that the high water level
will exceed 3.25 metres above AOD. A danger
level has also been decided upon, as the sea is
often unpredictable and the water level can rise
suddenly. If the water rises above the danger
level the gates will close automatically. A warn-
ing system has been developed that makes use
of long-range weather forecasts.
Opening or closing the barrier will affect the
safety of the flood defences along the Eastern
Scheldt (strong dykes are still necessary) and
also the environment, the fishing industry,
water management and shipping. When the
barrier is operated, therefore, as much account
as possible will be taken of conditions in the
Eastern Scheldt.
The barrier can of course be operated for other
purposes in addition to flood prevention. Since
this could endanger the environment, however,
it has been decided that when the water level is
not dangerously high the gates will be closed
only to prevent oil or chemical pollution from
entering the Eastern Scheldt, to limit the effects
of dyke collapse and to prevent drift ice damag-
ing the dykes. The storm surge barrier was also
closed during the construction of the compart-
mentation dams in 1986 and 1987 to moder-
ate the effect of the tide. Reducing the tidal
current made it possible to construct the Oester
and Philips dams using sand.
29
New peripheral lakes
The compartmentation dams necessitated by
the building of the barrier were constructed on
the border between the provinces of Zeeland
and North Brabant. Interconnected peripheral
lakes formed as a result of the construction of
the Oester and Philips dams. From north to
south these lakes are the Krammer/Volkerak,
the Zoommeer and the Markiezaatsmeer. A
sophisticated salt/freshwater separation system
has been built into the Krammer lock complex
to prevent the fresh water of the lakes mixing
with the salt water of the Eastern Scheldt.
Water can be discharged from the Zoommeer
via the Bath canal into the Western Scheldt so
that the level of the peripheral lakes is kept
constant. The Oester and Philips dams were
constructed using sand and are the largest sand
dams in the world to have been constructed in
Philips Dam
flowing water.
The Philips dam
1987
The Philips dam was constructed between Sint
Philipsland and the Grevelingen dam. A large
lock complex, the Krammer locks, was built on
a construction island in the middle of the dam.
Two locks were built for commercial shipping
and are suitable for four-barge push-tows.
A separate lock was built for pleasure craft.
A salt/freshwater separation system was built
into the lock complex to prevent large
quantities of salt water entering the freshwater
Krammer/Volkerak whenever a ship is locked
through from the Eastern Scheldt, and
conversely to prevent dilution of the Eastern
Scheldt with fresh water. It works on the
principle that salt water is denser than fresh
water. During the lockage of ships to the
Krammer/Volkerak the salt water of the
Eastern Scheldt is replaced with fresh water,
and the procedure is reversed for ships
travelling in the opposite direction. This
system has also been used in the Kreekrak
locks to prevent the brackish and polluted
water from the industrial area around Antwerp
entering the Zoommeer.
30
The 10 Markiezaat dyke
1983
A special dyke had to be constructed to
prevent strong currents building up during the
construction of the Oester dam, which would
have caused problems for shipping and
weakened the banks. This dyke was built
along the edge of the submerged former
marquisate of Bergen op Zoom; hence its
name, the Markiezaat dyke. A serious set-back
occurred during the construction of this dyke,
which extends five kilometres between the
Kreekrak locks and the Molenplaat near
Bergen op Zoom. 1982 it had been virtually
Markiezaatskade quay
completed and only the finishing work needed
to be done when a storm surge 3.7 metres
above AOD breached the dyke. The dyke was
finally completed a year later. A freshwater
lake has formed behind the Markiezaat dyke,
most of which will remain a wildlife area.
The Oester dam
1986
The Oester dam was built between Tholen and
South Beveland. Extending nearly 11
kilometres, it is the longest of all the dams in
the Delta. It separates the Scheldt-Rhine
shipping route from the Eastern Scheldt, so
that this important link is now non-tidal. The
dam lies close to the Scheldt-Rhine link in the
most easterly section of the inlet and therefore
the majority of the Eastern Scheldt remains
tidal. A lock, the Bergsche Diep lock, has been
built in the dam near Tholen for pleasure craft
and fishing boats moving between the
Zoommeer and the Eastern Scheldt. The dam
was built in an area where man had often done
battle with the sea in the past. The
composition of the bed was so erratic that it
had to be improved in many places.
The Oester Dam with the
Bergse Diep lock
31
A simple technique
A sluice has been built in the Grevelingen dam
just south of the point where it meets the
Philips dam. It uses a simple principle: that of
the siphon. It does not need expensive gates.
The siphon allows water to flow between the
Grevelingenmeer and the Eastern Scheldt. The
siphon and the discharge sluice in the Brouwers
dam enable the Grevelingenmeer to be flushed
with water to keep its salt content at an accep-
table level.
Water from the land inland of the compartmen-
tation dams drains into the peripheral lakes and
the level and quality of these lakes have to be
controlled. Inlet sluices have been constructed
in the Volkerak dam and when necessary water
from the Rhine and Maas can enter the peri-
pheral lakes via the Hollandsch Diep. As there
are often toxins in the rivers, though, the river
water is only rarely allowed to enter the peri-
pheral lakes; otherwise the beds of the Kram-
mer/volkerak and the Zoommeer would be
covered with a layer of highly polluted alluvium.
The Bath Discharge Canal
1987
The eight-kilometre Bath discharge canal has
Bathse drainage sluice
been excavated across the neck of South
Beveland to discharge excess water from the
The mouth of the canal
rivers and polders. It runs parallel to the
running through Zuid
Beveland at Hansweert
Scheldt-Rhine link and can discharge 8.5
million³ of water per day. At the outlet in the
Western Scheldt there is a sluice made of
concrete tunnels that forms part of the sea
wall. The sluice gates are closed when the
water level in the Western Scheldt is high, thus
preventing salt water from the Western Scheldt
entering the Zoommeer. The existing canal
running through South Beveland was also
improved as part of the compartmentation
works. New locks were built at Hansweert, the
canal was widened and a lock-free mouth was
created near Wemeldinge.
32
The Delta project completed
The bold programme of hydraulic engineering
The Netherlands was willing to spend a lot of
works in the Delta produced enormous changes
money on the Delta Project. The cost of ensur-
affecting people, animals, plants and the land-
ing protection from flooding, radically improv-
scape. Dams, locks and roads were constructed
ing the communications network, distributing
and new lakes and residential and recreational
the scarce supplies of fresh water more effi-
areas were created. Sweeping changes have
ciently and preserving the unique ecosystem
occurred in the age-old rhythm of ebb and
came to Fl. 12,000 m. The work in the Eastern
flow. The environment has altered in many
Scheldt was the most expensive part of the
places and in many ways. In addition to protect-
Delta Project, costing Fl. 8,000 m.
ing the southeast Netherlands from flooding
and producing economic benefits, the imple-
During the official opening ceremony of the
mentation of the Delta Project increasingly took
storm surge barrier, Queen Beatrix declared the
account of ecological requirements. A delta is a
Delta Project completed. The work in the south-
very rich and varied system of plant and animal
west Netherlands may be over, but there is still
communities: an ecosystem that is also econo-
a lot of work for the hydraulic engineers. Shal-
mically important and very sensitive to human
lows and sandbars are developing in front of
intervention.
the dams and headlands, and gradually becom-
ing higher, promoting the formation of new
channels. This area can offer new opportunities
to the fishing industry and the environment.
Plans are therefore already under consideration
in connection with the Delta Project for the
future of this area. The steady rise of the sea
level also indicates that the protection of the
Netherlands against the sea will remain a
permanent struggle. Dutch hydraulic engineers
believe that the knowledge and expertise they
gained in the thirty years it took to complete
The last lock hatch is put
the Delta Project should also benefit other
in place
countries in addition to the Netherlands.
The storm flood barrier is
complete
Colophon
Ministry of Transport and Public Works
Information Division
Plesmanweg 5 - Den Haag
January 1989
D67
Design: Dijkerman & van Waarden, Den Haag
Photography: Aero camera Bart Hofmeester,
Willem Diepraam, Peter de Ruig, Delta-phot,
Rijkswaterstaat reprografie en Aeroview
Lithography: Duolitho b.v., Zoetermeer
Printed: De Lange van Leer, Deventer
A - pier
B - sill beam
C - - upper beam
E
D gate
c
E - traffic road
F sill
G - foundation
D
B
A
F
G
Philips dam locks 65,7
Volkerak locks 168
Kats lock 5,9
Scheldt-Rhine link
Canal through
Walcheren
Canal through South-Beveland 57
Kreekrak locks 97
Shipping routes in the southern Delta area in millions of tonnes capacity
Haringvliet
Mytilus
Volkerak locks
Siphon sluice
Grevelingen
Cardium
m
Philipsdam
Jan Heijmans
Oesterdam
Trias
Bath discharge canal
Kreekrak locks
Western
Scheldt
Taklift 4
Macoma and Ostrea
Location of the compartimentalisation works
Eastern Scheldt 1100 milj. m³ Western Scheldt 1100 milj. m³
Brouwershavense gat 360 milj. m³
Haringvliet 260 milj. m³
Veerse gat 70 milj. m³
Tidal volumes
The flooded land in the 1953 storms.
Meters
vm
Metres
Fms
0
1
2
Voet Feet 65 80 85 95 40 20 90 50 60 25 55 30 45 70 10 15 75 35 O 5
3
4
25 20 27 24 26 23 29 19 28 22 17 21 16 12 14 10 13 18 15 11 4 6 8 5 2 9 7 3
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
TT
16
THE 12 12
TITLE
12 14
03
of
03 05
I's
90
07 05
07\
307