Gemaal Lely, Pumping station in Wieringerwerf, Netherlands.
Gemaal Lely is a pumping station located on the Wieringermeerdijk, rising higher on the eastern polder side than on the western IJsselmeer side. The structure consists of white concrete volumes that display a clear functional form.
The station was designed by Engineer D. Roosenburg and built between 1928 and 1929 by Hillen & Roosen with Trio Betonbouw. It became part of the water management infrastructure for the Wieringermeerpolder, which had been reclaimed from water shortly before.
The building displays Nieuwe Zakelijkheid architectural style with symmetrical facades and characteristic horizontal concrete ornaments. These design features still shape how visitors experience the surrounding polder landscape today.
Visitors can explore the station while cycling in the surrounding area, particularly on the Rondje Medemblik route and paths along the Westfriese Omringdijk. The location is best reached by bicycle and works well as a stop along longer cycling routes.
The eastern facade bears a commemorative plaque from 1945 with an engraved image of waves, polder land, and sun. This plaque marks a historical dike breach and shows how local events were carved directly into the building itself.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.