Leuvehaven

Until the 16th century, the current Leuvehaven harbor was a shallow bay where only small boats could sail.

In 1594, Rotterdam was granted permission to make the Leuve River more navigable up to the Maas River. The construction began in 1598 but was halted due to lack of funds. The harbor was completed around 1609.

Leuvehaven played a role in Rotterdam’s growth, allowing large ships to enter the initial part of the port.

Eventually, leisure spots and a fish market were established in the area.

The buildings surrounding Leuvehaven were destroyed during the 1940 bombing. Reconstruction plans started after World War II.

Until the late 1960s, the harbor was a bustling hub of commercial activity, with the area filled with ferries and distribution companies for local trade.

Leuvehaven now primarily serves as a museum harbor, but it still directly connects to the Nieuwe Maas River.

The harbor showcases historic ships, cranes, maritime equipment, and the Maritime Museum.

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