Zeeuws Maritiem muZEEum

Situated in the heart of Vlissingen, a charming city in the Dutch province of Zeeland, lies the Zeeuws Maritiem muZEEum. This captivating maritime museum is a treasure trove of nautical history and cultural heritage, nestled right by the city’s bustling marina. The Zeeuws Maritiem muZEEum, known locally as Zeeuws maritiem muZEEum, offers a fascinating journey through centuries of maritime adventures, trade, and exploration, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

A Fusion of Historical and Modern Architecture

The Zeeuws Maritiem muZEEum is housed in an intriguing complex of buildings that seamlessly blend the old with the new. The museum's architecture is a beautiful amalgamation of structures from the 16th, 17th, 18th, and 21st centuries, interconnected by contemporary design elements. One of the standout features of this complex is the Lampsinshuis, an exquisite building constructed in 1641 by Cornelis Lampsins, a prominent member of the Zeeland merchant and ship-owning family. The Lampsinshuis, with its Dutch classicist style, served both as a residence and the office of the renowned Lampsins trading house, where the legendary Michiel de Ruyter once worked as a young rope maker.

Behind the Lampsinshuis lie the original warehouses of this city palace, which are also part of the museum complex. In 2002, a significant expansion and modernization project, designed by Rijksgebouwendienst architect Marc van Roosmalen, began, integrating these historical buildings with new structures. The result is a harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern functionality, providing a unique setting for the museum's extensive collection.

Exploring the Permanent Collection

As you step into the Zeeuws Maritiem muZEEum, you are greeted by the permanent exhibition Ga mee naar zee (Join us at sea), housed in the Lampsinshuis. This exhibition showcases the museum's core collection, which includes an array of city historical artifacts and objects from Zeeland's rich maritime history. The collection is meticulously organized into various sub-collections and study collections, offering visitors an in-depth look at the region's nautical past.

The City Historical Collection

The city historical collection of Vlissingen is a highlight of the museum, featuring a diverse range of items that reflect the city's vibrant history. This collection includes silver guild pieces, paintings, architectural fragments such as tiles and façade stones, and various examples of craftsmanship. Notably, the collection also contains furniture and interior design elements, including fireplace plates and birdcages shaped like historical buildings. Additionally, there are paintings and models related to World War II by Cees van de Burght, as well as an impressive assortment of prints.

The Maritime Archeological Collection

The Zeeuws Maritiem muZEEum also boasts an impressive maritime archaeological collection, featuring artifacts recovered from VOC (Dutch East India Company) ships. These include items from notable shipwrecks such as 't Vliegent Hart, Rooswijk, Geldermalsen, Campen, and Woestduin. These artifacts provide a tangible connection to the adventurous and often perilous voyages undertaken by Dutch sailors during the Golden Age of exploration and trade.

The Zeeland Maritime Collection

The museum's Zeeland maritime collection is another treasure trove, featuring portraits of Zeeland heroes like Michiel de Ruyter and Anna van Gelder, as well as Joost de Moor, Joost van Trappen Banckert, and Geleyn Loncque. The collection also includes tools and instruments, maritime prints, and ship models representing various vessels from Zeeland and Flemish fisheries, the Olau Line, and the pilotage service. Additionally, there are models of VOC ships, an 18th-century slave ship, and diving and salvage methods.

Following the dissolution of the Provincial Steamship Services in Zeeland, various items such as ship models, uniforms, and other memorabilia were entrusted to the muZEEum. Artifacts recovered from shipwrecks in the Western Scheldt, including German tableware from World War II and personal belongings, were also added to the collection. Paintings and memorabilia related to the Steamship Company Zeeland and the former Zeeland Islands Water Board are among the many fascinating items on display.

The Study Collections

Apart from the exhibited collections, the Zeeuws Maritiem muZEEum also maintains extensive study collections. These include a numismatic collection, one of the largest in the Netherlands, with over 3,500 coins and medals donated by Carel Albert van Woelderen. Additionally, there is a collection of approximately 4,000 wall tiles from the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries, recovered during the renovation of Vlissingen's city center.

The Art Collection

Art enthusiasts will find much to admire in the muZEEum's art collection, which features works by members of the Kunstkring het Zuiden and other notable artists such as Jan Pieter van Baurscheidt de Jonge, Jan François Brouwenaar, Cornelis van der Burght, and many more. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and other works that capture the essence of Zeeland's artistic heritage.

The Museum Library

The Zeeuws Maritiem muZEEum also houses a modest, private museum library, offering a wealth of information related to the collection. The library contains professional literature and several historical books, including a biography of Michiel de Ruyter by Gerard Brandt and a complete edition of travel reports published by the Linschoten-Vereeniging.

In conclusion, the Zeeuws Maritiem muZEEum is not just a museum; it is a portal to the past, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the maritime history and cultural heritage of Zeeland. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, or simply curious about the region's nautical legacy, a visit to this remarkable museum promises to be an enriching and unforgettable experience.