Nauerna

Nauerna is a rural settlement in Zaanstad that stretches along the Nauernasche Vaart canal. The area connects to the North Sea Canal through the Schermersluis lock and includes residential properties spread across both banks of the waterway.

The settlement appears in written records from the 15th century with varying spellings documented over time, reflecting the evolution of Dutch language. By 1840, it had developed into a small residential community with homes in two different municipalities.

The settlement's name evolved from various historical forms: Naauwerna in 1492, Nouwerna in 1547, and Nauwertna in 1604, reflecting Middle Dutch linguistic roots.

This is a residential area with a speed limit of 30 kilometers per hour and official blue place name signs marking it as a designated living zone. The layout encourages slow traffic and local access rather than through-traffic.

The area once operated roughly seven windmills during its industrial period, making it a minor hub within the broader milling network of Zaanstreek. These structures shaped the landscape and reflected the area's role in regional grain processing.