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UNESCO World heritage site

in Laag Holland

The opening of the Fort along Nekkerweg (Fort Resort Beemster) Ancient remains at Fort Spijkerboor.

Two world heritage sites in one landscape

Laag Holland is home to no less than two UNESCO World Heritage Sites that make the Dutch relationship with water tangible: the Hollandse Waterlinies with forts, dikes and inundation fields and Droogmakerij De Beemster, a masterfully designed polder landscape. In total, you will find 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Netherlands. Discover their history of clever hydraulic engineering, historic defences and the Dutch struggle with - and against - water. Plan your visit with walking and cycling routes and immerse yourself in exhibitions, informative tours or openings. Below you will find more details, routes and tips for your visit.

  • Aerial view of the Keys church in De Beemtster.

    Discover World Heritage Site De Beemster Polder

  • Twizy rides at Fort Spijkerboor in De Beemster.

    Discover the Dutch Waterline World Heritage Site

Water as master - The story behind Landscape and Heritage

The World Heritage Site in Laag Holland tells two fascinating water stories: defence through inundation (the Waterlinies) and land reclamation through reclamation (the Beemster). These icons reveal centuries of innovation in technology, administration and design, from strategic dykes and lock gates to the rational polder landscape with straight roads and ring dykes. Those who observe the landscape carefully will discover how water management laid the foundations for spatial planning, economy and safety.

Beemster World Heritage Room

At Bezoekerscentrum Beemster, you will be introduced to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Droogmakerij de Beemster and the Hollandse Waterlinies in an accessible way. A large overview map invites you to further explore the Beemster and its special locations.

Beemster World Heritage Room
The World Heritage Room at the visitor centre in Middenbeemster.

Cycling & Walking along heritage sites

Forts in Laag Holland

Frequently asked questions

  • What makes these places UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

    The unique connection of water management, design and heritage: defence by inundation (Waterlinies) and masterful polder planning (Beemster).

  • Can I visit both in one day?

    Yes, for example by public transport + bicycle and compact loops; count time for one fort and a short polder route.

  • Are there guided tours or audio tours?

    At various locations; availability varies by provider. Check with the provider or via the Events.

  • Is it suitable for a quiet day?

    Yes Choose off-peak, plan silence breaks at dykes/ vantage points and read more information along the way.

  • What about accessibility?

    This varies by location. Check the location in advance for the most up-to-date information.

Laatst bijgewerkt: november 2025 • Laatst geverifieerd: november 2025 • Auteur: Redactie Laag Holland 

Bronnen: Dutch water lines, Beemster Polder, Events

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