states: [netherlands]
category: cultural
year: 1999
location: Province of Noord-Holland
region: Europe and North America
latitude/longitude: 52.5488888900, 4.9111111110
The Beemster Polder, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Netherlands, is a remarkable example of Dutch ingenuity in land reclamation. Created in the early 17th century by draining a lake with windmills, this site showcases a meticulously planned landscape of fields, roads, canals, and dykes. Its geometric design reflects the Renaissance-era principles of order and symmetry, while its preservation highlights its historical significance as one of the first large-scale polders, demonstrating advanced water management techniques that have shaped the nation's geography and culture.
Copyright © 1992 - 2025 UNESCO/World Heritage Centre. All rights reserved.