Discover Benelux | Cultural Attraction of the Month | The Netherlands
C U LT U R A L AT T R A C T I O N O F T H E M O N T H , T H E N E T H E R L A N D S
Relive history at Neeltje Jans TEXT: CHARLOTTE VAN HEK | PHOTOS: NEELTJE JANS
With more than half of the Netherlands lying under sea level, the Dutch are known for their eternal struggle with water. The Delta Works in Zeeland were built to prevent reoccurrence of the 1953 flood disaster, which left the country shocked and partly in ruins. Deltapark Neeltje Jans is the worldfamous symbol of this struggle and has already attracted nearly ten million people with its fascinating combination of nature, culture, and technique. On the night of 31 January 1953, an enormous storm took place and the North Sea raged against the province of Zeeland, wiping out part of the Netherlands. At Neeltje Jans you can dive into the history of this infamous disaster – and relive it. Deltapark Neeltje Jans is located at the foot of the largest storm surge barrier in the world. In an innovative, accessible and lively way, you are told the story behind this immense structure, which was con70 | Issue 41 | May 2017
structed after 1953 to keep the people of the Netherlands forever safe. Exhibitions, films and a visit to the storm surge barrier itself will give you an impression of the stupendous power of water. New is the Delta Experience, a complete reconstruction of the disastrous night in 1953. People come to view the storm surge barrier from as far away as America. But Neeltje Jans is more. Neeltje Jans is a full day of enjoyment, offering an abundance of family-fun activities involving the wonderful world of water, sea animals, and stunning nature. Animal lovers will love the seal show or the possibility to swim with sea lions - who do not shy away from kissing! The daredevils among us can take it one step further and swim with sharks. More sea animals can be admired at the fantastic aquarium or at Whale World. Not afraid to get your feet wet? Neeltje Jans knows that water is an inexhaustible source of
pleasure. The Waterpark ensures hours of water fun. The newly opened water playground is a feast for the little ones, while the exciting landslide invites the older ones to rush down as fast as they can. Neeltje Jans’ impressive boat tour is the ideal opportunity to sit back and relax. This one-hour trip lets you meet the unique nature of the Oosterschelde in a relaxing way. You might even spot some seals and harbour porpoises… For more information, please visit www.neeltjejans.nl