The bombing of Rotterdam – often referred to as the ‘Rotterdam Blitz’ – was a turning point in the German invasion of the Netherlands. The Germans had invaded on May 10, 1940, and four days later this decision was made. The Netherlands capitulated the following day, on May 15, though Zeeland continued fighting for a few more days.

The destruction led to large-scale reconstruction after the war. The city center was completely redesigned in a modern, functional style. This is why Rotterdam looks so different now from Amsterdam or Utrecht, which have largely preserved their canal houses and old city centers. Rotterdam instead acquired that sleek, modern appearance for which the city is now known.

Every year on May 14, Rotterdam holds a commemoration. At exactly 1:27 PM – the moment when the bombs fell – sirens wail throughout the city. An impressive moment of silence. The statue ‘The Destroyed City’ by Ossip Zadkine at the Leuvehaven stands there permanently as a silent witness. That figure with the hole in its chest – perfectly symbolizes the heart that was torn from the city. The reconstruction has transformed Rotterdam into an architectural hotspot, with innovative buildings and urban planning that you won’t find anywhere else in the Netherlands.