ijmuiden
mouth of the North Sea Canal
IJmuiden is a picturesque town that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and maritime charm. Boasting a rich history, this coastal gem has evolved from a fishing village into a bustling port city over the years.
IJmuiden’s major attraction is its extensive beachfront, drawing locals and tourists alike to soak up the sun, stroll along the sandy shores, or indulge in various water sports. The iconic red lighthouse stands proudly at the mouth of the North Sea Canal, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the bustling harbor.
For maritime enthusiasts, the Felison Cruise Terminal is a gateway to embark on exciting cruises and explore the wonders of the North Sea. Additionally, the Seaport Marina offers a plethora of activities, from boat rentals to cozy waterfront restaurants.
Beyond its maritime appeal, IJmuiden also offers a vibrant culinary scene, with an abundance of seafood restaurants serving freshly caught delights. The town’s open-air fish market is a must-visit, where visitors can savor the freshest catches and experience the local maritime culture.
IJmuiden’s charm lies in its ability to seamlessly blend the allure of a coastal getaway with its industrious port activities. Whether you seek relaxation on the beach, an immersion in maritime history, or a taste of delectable seafood, IJmuiden promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture to this coastal jewel in the Netherlands.
Bunkers and attributes, as silent witnesses of the Second World War
The Bunker Museum IJmuiden is hidden in a corner of the original Coast Artillery position Heerenduinen. From this position the IJmuiden harbor mouth was defended and with it the access to the port of Amsterdam. The museum consists of 6 largely underground bunkers. In these bunkers you can feast your eyes on the enormous collection that is on display. This varies from a German canteen to a two-person submarine.
North Sea Canal
The North Sea Canal was largely created by the reclamation of the IJ, for which dykes were constructed over a length of 17 km. Over the centuries, the IJ was created by bank erosion along the edges. Dikes on the north and south sides prevented the IJ from getting any bigger. After the peat had been swept away, a layer of fertile young sea clay was deposited. The construction of the IJpolders, the North Sea Canal and the side canals went simultaneously. The work took approximately seven years and the polders were completed in 1872. On November 1, 1876, the canal was officially opened for shipping and King Willem III made the first trip through the locks. The canal then had a bottom width of 27 meters and was approximately 7 meters deep.
IJmuiden Sea Lock
The locks became too small for the ever-increasing seagoing vessels. The construction of the IJmuiden Sea Lock by the OpenIJ contractor consortium has been completed since August 2021. The lock was officially opened for shipping on January 26, 2022.
biggest in the world
Hoogovensmuseum
The Hoogovensmuseum shows the history of the steel company in IJmuiden. The development of the iron- and steel company is exhibited by presenting objects, old documents, photograph and film materials.
The museum has been established in an historical building, the old piping foundry, which is located exactly outside the company area behind the congress centre of Tata Steel.
IJmuider sea and harbor museum
The IJmuider Sea and Harbor Museum shows the history and development of the North Sea Canal and IJmuiden, fishing and maritime activities such as towage, rescue and pilotage and industry in and around IJmuiden.
Tata steel
Tata Steel in IJmuiden annually produces and supplies more than 7 million tons of high-quality steel in the form of coils. The steel from IJmuiden is mainly processed in the automotive, construction and packaging industries.
