Sneek Watergate

My first design. 

I've build the iconic “Waterpoort” from the dutch city Sneek.

Waterpoort Sneek, more than a stunning building

Graceful, not to be missed, and yet modest. The Waterpoort (water gate) of Sneek is a fascinating building and a national monument. The people of Sneek are proud of their Waterpoort and like to show the silhouette on their sweaters or cars. Anyone who has ever sailed or walked through the Waterpoort understands why. It’s a magical thing. The Sneeker Waterpoort stands on the edge of the old city centre and was built at the same time as the city wall, around 1492. But the gate got its present character later, in 1613.

 

What was the Waterpoort for?

Water gates were built as part of a town rampart or wall. Just like land gates. They could be closed in case of imminent danger, but they were mainly used to seal off the city at night. In 1825, the Waterpoort of Sneek was closed for the last time. If you were late, you had to pay. To spare the inhabitants of Sneek this fine, the clock was once advanced five minutes, so that people, in reality, would not arrive too late so quickly. Since then, the clock of the Waterpoort has never been turned back.