May 14th, 1940. Nazi Germany had attacked the Netherlands a few days earlier. Because of its industry, Rotterdam was an important target for the Nazis. But the city didn’t surrender as easy as expected. The Dutch marines, encamped in Rotterdam, defended its city with fierce and heroic fighting. Until the Nazis decided they had had enough. They bombarded the entire historical center and destroyed it. Over 900 people died and 80.000 became homeless. The bombardment was soon followed by the surrender of the Netherlands.
To commemorate this day, the French/Belarussian artist Ossip Zadkine made a sculpture that gives me goosebumps every time I see it. He named it De Verwoeste Stad (The Destroyed City, 1953). This bronze statue is over 6 meters tall and depicts a screaming man without a heart. He is in agony and throws his arms desperately in the sky. The missing heart illustrates Rotterdam’s destroyed city center, a city without a heart.
The statue is special to many people in the city. To the older people, who witnessed the bombardment, it represents pre-war Rotterdam and that dark day on the 14th of May. To the younger people, like myself, the statue represents a sense of pride. Even after that much setback, the city pulled itself together and became the wonderful city it is today. For that reason, I visit this beautiful and yet terrifying statue and think about all the city has gone through.
Plein 1940
€
free
Find your way with 164 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Juffrouw van Zanten's brunch platter has it all: pancakes, avo toast, banana bread, and more. All this in a cozy, family-friendly, living room-like setting.
by
Paddy Murphy's is the go-to spot to catch any game, enjoy hearty food, and connect with a lively crowd in a true Irish pub atmosphere.
by
In a life where everything changes, Seth has managed to stay the same: the best quality poffertjes and many other Dutchie favorites.
by
Sitting in this place gives an absolutely calming and full of serenity and peace vibe that is hard to find right in the middle of the city.
by
Walkling from Maashaven to Rijnhaven Metro stations in Rotterdam is like visiting a street art gallery! Which of the pillars will be your favorite?
by
"De Ballentent" - the best place in Rotterdam, nay, the whole country to overeat on meatballs. This restaurant is a little piece of heaven and then some.
by
And for us personally, it’s the simple pleasure of strolling through Vroesenpark with our dog, Andes, culminating in a leisurely break at the pavilion.
by
Katendrecht's Fenix Food Factory offers craft beers, natural wines, tasty bites, and riverfront views — perfect for food, drinks, and culture in Rotterdam.
by
Cafe Unfiltered sits on a peaceful street lined with classic Dutch houses, a refreshing contrast to Rotterdam’s skyline. Pause here to appreciate the city’s hidden corners.
by
BAKKIT is a modern, yet cozy bakery founded by two sisters. Try their famous Rotterdamse Rol filled with pistachio cream, coated in white chocolate & nuts.
by
De Burgemeester in Rotterdam distinguishes itself by the impressive collection of special beers that will get your head spinning...
by
164 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 164 Insider Tips