Lorentzsluizen

The Lorentzsluizen is a double lock and drainage system in Kornwerderzand that allows ships to pass between the IJsselmeer and the Wadden Sea. The larger lock spans about 137 meters in length and 14 meters in width, while the smaller lock measures about 67 meters by 8 meters.

Construction began in 1928 and the locks opened in 1931, followed by the drainage system in 1932 as part of the Afsluitdijk project. This facility was a critical step in reshaping the Dutch coastline.

Named after physicist Hendrik Lorentz, the installation represents Dutch engineering skill in managing water and tides. The place shows how people here learned to live and work between two different seas.

The site is best viewed from land, as the locks are mainly used by ship traffic passing through. Visitors can observe the installation from walking paths around Kornwerderzand, especially when vessels are passing through.

The concrete foundations rest on wooden piles, chosen specifically for the soil conditions at this location. This distinguishes the construction notably from the nearby Stevinsluizen, where different building methods were used.

Location: Súdwest-Fryslân

Architects: Dirk Roosenburg

Official opening: 1933

Architectural style: functionalism

Part of: Lorentzsluizen

GPS coordinates: 53.07194,5.33583

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:02