Schutsluis Hengelo

The Schutsluis Hengelo is a navigation lock on the Twentekanaal with tapered concrete walls and a long chamber designed for commercial vessels. The structure allows ships to pass through a significant vertical change in water level while maintaining the waterway's connection between different sections.

The lock was designed in the early 1900s by architect Dirk Roosenburg as part of the Twentekanaal system to improve waterway transport in the region. It was officially recognized as a national monument in 1999 due to its engineering significance.

The lock represents Dutch engineering excellence in water management, demonstrating the Netherlands' long-standing relationship with maritime infrastructure and waterway control.

The lock is accessible from the surrounding paths and offers clear views of how the gate mechanism operates. You can walk around the structure to observe passing vessels and get a sense of its scale and engineering.

The downstream gates use a central rolling door sealing system that is not found on any other lock in the Netherlands. This distinctive mechanical arrangement makes this facility a one-of-a-kind example in Dutch waterway infrastructure.

Location: Hengelo

Architects: Dirk Roosenburg

Part of: Schutsluis Hengelo

GPS coordinates: 52.24605,6.80478

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:20