Willemsoord is a historic shipyard complex in Den Helder, where maritime history and modern recreation converge. This former Rijkswerf site covers 40 hectares and is owned partly by the municipality of Den Helder and partly by the Royal Netherlands Navy. Here you'll find the Naval Museum and the Royal Netherlands Naval Institute (KIM), part of the Netherlands Defence Academy.
A shipyard with imperial history
In 1812, French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte authorized the construction of a naval shipyard in Den Helder. Water management expert Jan Blanken Jansz. designed Willemsoord as a safe harbor and repair site for warships. After the fall of Napoleon, King William I continued the project in 1813, giving the shipyard its name.
From shipyard to national monument and meeting place
Naval vessels were maintained here until 1993, when the work moved to the Nieuwe Haventerrein (New Port Area). In 1997, Willemsoord was designated a national monument. Today, it's a vibrant area with museums, restaurants, and events, perfect for a day out in a nautical atmosphere.
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