Monument 1872

Monument 1872 is a 7-meter tall bronze and limestone statue located at Nieuwemarkt in Rotterdam. A central female figure holds a spear topped with a liberty cap and is surrounded by four historical figures positioned at the base.

The monument was designed by Joseph Greving and unveiled in 1874. It commemorates the liberation of Den Briel from Spanish rule by the Watergeuzen in April 1572.

The four corner figures represent different social groups: a medieval porter, a Watergeus warrior, a laborer with tools, and a Batavier with weapons. These representations show the diversity of society that the monument honors.

The monument is surrounded by a fountain system featuring two swans and two fish that spout water into shell-shaped basins. All the water flows into a larger octagonal basin in the center.

Lions at the base hold shields displaying the coats of arms of Holland, Rotterdam, Brielle, and Willem van Oranje. This links local and national heritage in an inventive way.

Location: Rotterdam

Inception: 1874

Creator: Joseph Graven

Height: 7 m

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Made from material: bronze, limestone, stone

Address: Nieuwemarkt 49, 3011 HP Rotterdam, Nederland

GPS coordinates: 51.92262,4.48797

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:03