Stormvloedkering Hollandse IJssel, Flood barrier of Delta Works in Capelle aan den IJssel, Netherlands
The Stormvloedkering Hollandse IJssel is a large steel structure with movable gates located in Capelle aan den IJssel. It controls water flow between the North Sea and inland waterways while allowing ships to pass through when needed.
Following the North Sea flood of 1953, this structure was completed in 1958 as the first Delta Works project. It marked the beginning of a new approach to flood protection in the Netherlands.
The structure shows Dutch determination to protect their land from water threats. It stands as a symbol of how people here have learned to live with and control their environment.
The structure is visible from outside and accessible to visitors interested in understanding how water management works here. The best time to visit is during high water conditions when the gates are in motion.
The dual vertical lift gates each span 81 meters wide and can close within 30 minutes when water levels become critical. This design allows ship traffic to continue while protection remains ready.
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