Westerlee

Westerlee is a small rural settlement in Westland centered on a large auction complex spanning about 30 hectares where vegetable merchants gather daily. The site handles produce from nearby greenhouses, primarily tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce, which are sorted and distributed to wider markets.

The area has Roman origins, with 2014 archaeological finds at Leehove revealing a Roman naval installation near where the Lee and Maas rivers meet. Over centuries, it evolved into a vegetable trading hub, which shaped its modern role as a regional commercial center.

The area maintains strong connections to Dutch agricultural heritage through its extensive greenhouse operations and vegetable trading activities.

Visitors can find Westerlee at the intersection of provincial roads N223 and N213, making it easily accessible by car. The area is most active during daylight hours, especially in the morning and early afternoon when trading activity peaks.

The current Handelscentrum Westerlee evolved from a former auction building while maintaining its historical role as a trading hub. This transformation reveals how traditional markets adapted to modern demands while preserving their essential function.