How low can we go?

The Netherlands is well-known for being very low-lying, with about a third of the country below sea level. This might be surprising, but it’s a key part of the nation’s history, infrastructure, and culture.

The Netherlands: A Country Shaped by Water

Much of the land that is below sea level was reclaimed through a complex system of dikes, canals, and polders—showing the Dutch expertise in water management. Polders are pieces of land that were once underwater, drained using pumps and windmills so they could be used for farming or building. This process started back in the Middle Ages and still continues today.

For centuries, the Dutch have fought against the sea with clever engineering. One of the most famous achievements is the Delta Works, a massive system of storm surge barriers. After the North Sea Flood of 1953, which killed over 1,800 people, the Delta Works were built to protect the country from future floods. It is now considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

Thanks to modern technology and regular maintenance, cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam stay safe, even though they are below sea level. However, challenges like climate change, rising sea levels, and more frequent rainfall mean that the Dutch are always coming up with new ways to manage water.

Understanding the Netherlands' relationship with water helps you appreciate the creativity and resilience of the country. Water shapes the landscape, daily life, and even urban planning, making the Netherlands a unique and innovative place to live.

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