Kornwerderzand is a small village located in the province of Friesland, in the northern part of the Netherlands. This unique settlement is situated on an artificial island that forms part of the Afsluitdijk, a major causeway that connects the provinces of North Holland and Friesland. Kornwerderzand plays a significant role in Dutch water management and military history.
The village is primarily known for its strategic location and the Kornwerderzand Casemates, a series of bunkers and fortifications built in the 1930s as part of the Dutch Water Line defense system. These fortifications played a crucial role during the early days of World War II, successfully defending against German advances in May 1940.
Today, Kornwerderzand serves as an important site for both historical tourism and environmental education. Visitors can explore the Kazemattenmuseum (Casemates Museum) to learn about the area's military history and the engineering feat of the Afsluitdijk. The surrounding area also offers opportunities to observe the unique ecosystem where the freshwater IJsselmeer meets the saltwater Wadden Sea, showcasing the Netherlands' ongoing relationship with water management and coastal protection.
