The Maritime Museum Rotterdam, known locally as Maritiem Museum Rotterdam, is a captivating gateway into the Netherlands' rich maritime history. Nestled in the bustling heart of Rotterdam, this museum is more than just a collection of artifacts; it's a vibrant journey through six centuries of seafaring adventure and innovation. With its intriguing exhibits and historic vessels, the museum offers an immersive experience that appeals to visitors of all ages.
The roots of the Maritime Museum Rotterdam stretch back to 1874, when it was founded around the collection of ship models from the Royal Dutch Yacht Club, of which Prince Hendrik was a passionate advocate. Known as Hendrik the Navigator, his vision laid the foundation for what would become one of the world's most comprehensive maritime collections. The museum's collection was acquired by the city of Rotterdam in 1885, and it has since evolved into a beacon of maritime heritage.
Originally housed in the Royal Dutch Yacht Club's clubhouse, the museum has moved several times, finally settling in its current location at Leuvehaven in 1986. This modern building, designed by architect Wim Quist, cleverly incorporates elements reminiscent of shipbuilding, such as steel stairs and cranes, creating a space that echoes the maritime world it celebrates.
As you step into the Maritime Museum Rotterdam, you're greeted by a world where the past and present converge. The museum's vast collection, consisting of over 850,000 objects, is a testament to the Netherlands' enduring relationship with the sea. From prehistoric dugout canoes to contemporary offshore technology, the exhibits illustrate the profound impact of maritime endeavors on daily life.
One of the highlights is the 'Offshore Experience,' a dynamic exhibition that transports visitors to the high-tech world of modern offshore drilling platforms. Here, you can feel the thrill of being at sea, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a bustling oil rig. For younger visitors, the 'Professor Plons' exhibit offers an engaging, hands-on introduction to maritime life, making it a hit with families.
Scavenger hunts in Rotterdam
Discover Rotterdam with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Rotterdam with your team!
The museum is home to some remarkable historical treasures. Among them is the Mataró model, the oldest ship model in Europe, dating back to around 1425. Another gem is the 'Itinerario' by Jan Huygen van Linschoten, an invaluable 16th-century travelogue that unveiled the secrets of Portuguese navigation, akin to the WikiLeaks of its time.
Don't miss the 'Atlas of the World' by Gerard Mercator, a groundbreaking map from 1569, and the exquisite pen paintings by Willem van de Velde the Elder. The museum also boasts a collection of sea charts by master cartographer Joan Blaeu, including VOC maps that were hidden in England for three centuries before being acquired by the museum in 2006.
Behind the museum lies the Maritime Museum Harbor, the largest museum harbor in the Netherlands. This outdoor section is a living testament to maritime history, featuring a unique collection of historic ships and cranes. Here, you can explore steam tugs like Dockyard V and Volharding 1, as well as the Stadsgraanzuiger 19, the only working grain elevator in the world.
The harbor is also home to the Hasselter aak Annigje, a beautifully restored historic ship that offers a glimpse into the past. During the summer months, the museum organizes boat trips, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of sailing these historic vessels.
The recent addition of the Leuvepaviljoen has further enhanced the museum's offerings. This new building houses public workshops where visitors can witness the meticulous maintenance of the museum's historic fleet. It's also home to the Port Pavilion, an information hub where you can learn about Rotterdam's modern port activities and enjoy two delightful dining options.
The museum's library, established in 1857, is the oldest and most comprehensive maritime library in the Netherlands. It houses an extensive collection of international literature on shipping, shipbuilding, and offshore industries, as well as rare books and journals. Notable collections include those of Rotterdam collector Dr. Willem Anton Engelbrecht and maritime journalist Barend Maaskant.
In conclusion, the Maritime Museum Rotterdam is not just a repository of maritime artifacts; it's a vibrant exploration of the Netherlands' seafaring legacy. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a family looking for an interactive day out, or simply curious about the maritime world, this museum offers a captivating experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the sea and its stories.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.