Introduction

Rotterdam was bombed on May 14, 1940 and lost most of its city center. The rebuilding began right after. The city faced the enormous challenge of reinventing itself and, above all, quickly creating new housing and buildings. This process was also an opportunity to make a modern city with new ideals and ambitions.

The principles and ambitions of postwar architecture are progressive and functional. Clean lines and functionality dominated over decorations. The plan symbolized a city that did not want to restore itself to the past, but shape a new future. This was received with enthusiasm by the people of Rotterdam.

In the late 1960s, criticism of the reconstruction came: the center was seen as a failure. New ideas emerged, with greener and cozier buildings and more housing. Buildings from the Reconstruction period were demolished and made space for modern new buildings and skyscrapers.

Now several buildings from the reconstruction period are national monuments and are well maintained. This route will show some of them.