Stormvloedkering Hollandse IJssel

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.

Location: Capelle aan den IJssel

Inception: 1959

Architects: Johan Adrianus Gerard van der Steur

Architectural style: reconstruction-period architecture

Part of: N210 road, Delta Works, Beschermingsprogramma Wederopbouw 1959-1965

GPS coordinates: 51.91722,4.57917

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:08