The smart choice in the Rotterdam area

Willemstad

Willemstad is also a walled city and has 2,441 inhabitants. William of Orange had the village of Ruigenhil reinforced in 1583 in order to resist the Spaniards. Thus arose the walled city of William’s Stad. His son Maurits finished the job. He built the magnificent Mauritshuis on the Hofstraat. He also contributed to the construction of the Cupola Church, the first church in the Netherlands specifically built for the protestant order of service. In 1603, Willemstad was shaped into the form of a seven-pointed star. The seven ramparts bear the names of the seven provinces. These ramparts, and also the embankments, are still largely intact. Willemstad has not for nothing an officially protected townscape. If you also count the pattern of the streets, the monumental buildings and the extraordinary historical atmosphere that Willemstad radiates is complete. There are great shops, restaurants where you can eat good food and sociable terraces.
Due to its location on the Volkerak and the Hollandsch Diep, the marina of Willemstad is a favourite spot for water sports lovers. Tourism is at its highest level here.