Rijksmonument Waterpoort Sneek uit 1613

The Waterpoort is the symbol of Sneek, the Frisian water-sports town, and it is one of the best-known monuments in the province. The brick gate stands across the water where the canal entered the old town, and in its present form it dates from 1613, replacing an earlier gate on the same site. The word Rijksmonument in its name means that it is a national monument, protected by the state because of its historic importance.

The gate was part of the town's defences. Sneek was once surrounded by walls and moats, and a water gate served to control boats entering and leaving the canal system. It could be closed at night or in times of danger, and goods passing through could be inspected and taxed. Today only a few fragments of the old walls survive, and the Waterpoort is the most prominent remnant, which explains why the town has adopted it as an emblem.

The design is memorable. Two round towers with pointed roofs flank a central arch, and a bridge crosses the water beside it. The towers are built in warm red brick with stone details, and they are reflected in the canal below, which makes the gate especially photogenic in calm weather and in the evening light. It stands in a pleasant setting by the harbour, with moored boats and terraces nearby, and the view from the bridge and from the quays is among the best in town.

The gate sits close to other sights. The Frisian Shipping Museum is a short walk away in the old centre, and the distillery Weduwe Joustra, famous for Beerenburg, is also near. In early August, the Sneekweek regatta fills the lakes and harbour with sailing boats and the town with visitors, and the Waterpoort is a focal point of the festivities.

The monument is free to view from outside and takes only a few minutes, but it is a good starting point for a stroll around Sneek. Walk through the old streets, take a canal boat or rent a small boat to see the town from the water. Visit in the evening, when the lights come on, for the best mood. Friesland’s visitors often photograph it from the bridge. Friesland has few monuments as recognisable. Sneek’s Tourist office can supply a walking route, and the Waterpoort’s setting is best enjoyed in calm weather. While you are there, look for the old fortification traces nearby.