Oranjesluis, 's-Gravenzande, Historical lock in 's-Gravenzande, Netherlands.
Oranjesluis is a lock located in 's-Gravenzande along the Maasdijk that connects waterways across the region. The structure includes a keeper's house built directly on top of the lock mechanism.
The lock was built in 1676 by the Delfland Water Board under William III of Orange to supply fresh water for the Honselaarsdijk estate gardens. It was later renovated and expanded as the region's needs changed over time.
The lock represents how local communities engineered solutions to manage water in a low-lying region, balancing the needs of agriculture and transportation. Visitors can observe how the waterway remains central to the landscape's function and character.
The lock is easily viewable from the adjacent paths and can be observed from multiple angles around the structure. Weather conditions can affect visibility of the water operations, so a clear day offers the best viewing experience.
The structure underwent major renewal in 1888 and has continuously served as a water outlet for the region's drainage system ever since. This long operational history reveals how essential such infrastructure became to the Westland area.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
