Goejanverwellesluis - Hekendorp

What at first glance seems like an ordinary lock is actually an ancient structure full of stories. Stories that even shaped an important moment in history.

In the 16th century, several villages, including Woerden and Oudewater, wanted the water level raised. This would allow larger ships to cross the river. However, cities like Rotterdam and Gouda were against this. Eventually, the courts vindicated these towns. Years later, Woerden and Oudewater got their way and the water level was raised after all.

Around two hundred years later, Princess Wilhelmina of Prussia was stopped by the Patriots at this lock and imprisoned. She could not stay here and chose to return to Nijmegen. Her brother, Frederick William II of Prussia, immediately sprang into action and invaded the province of Holland. This eventually led to the fall of the Patriots and the restoration of Orange power.