Hembrug site: industrial heritage & creative hotspot
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Hembrug site
A surprising mix of monuments, ruins, untouched nature and creative entrepreneurs.
If you want to see the pearls of the Zaan region, don't neglect this unpolished diamond.
HEMbrug once formed the heart of the Defence Line of Amsterdam, and around 1895 the site on the North Sea Canal was put to use for the production of weapons and ammunition.
Planning commissions had nothing to say on this tightly secured and gated site, resulting in a variety of architectural styles representing a century of building. Much of it still stands. Sometimes in wretched condition, sometimes beautifully restored.
After the Hembrug site was opened up, it was soon discovered by creative entrepreneurs and intiatives. Come wander around this mysterious terrain and be surprised.
Tipping locals - the best places and initiatives to discover!
On the road together - cycling and walking routes along the Hembrug site
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The Zaanse Port area
Wander along the Zaan and discover the mysterious Hemburg terrain. Walking route 7 km.
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Hembrug site walk
Audio tour with Zaans ommetje by Volkskrant journalist Sander Groen.
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HollandRoute Industrial Red
Cycle route past architecture, Westergasfabriek, the western port area and the forgotten Zaanse weapons factory.
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Site plan
Commissioned by the Zaans Museum, artist Jan Rothuizen drew a map of the site. Order it from the museum including audio tour.
Discover more
To the Hembrug site - accessibility and parking
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By car
Parking is easy and free at the Hembrug site. Click through to Google Maps for directions.
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By train
For the Hembrug site, travel to Zaandam Station. From there, it's about 2.5 kilometres on foot or by bike.
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Rent a bike
Get a bike from the NS at Zaandam Station or from the Fietsenpakhuis in the city centre, at walking distance from the station.
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Neighbourhood bus
From now on, neighbourhood bus 456 will travel via Middenweg on the Hembrug site and stop halfway at the new bus stop near the Project Factory.