Amsterdam’s Canals Face Hidden Crisis—Meet the Guardians Saving Them

Amsterdam’s postcard-perfect Grachtengordel neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010, hides a secret beneath its iconic 17th-century canals. While millions flock to see its crescent-shaped waterways and charming boathouses, the foundations of this historic gem are quietly crumbling.

Decades of water erosion have left 10 kilometers of canal walls and six bridges at risk of collapse. The culprit? Aging wooden pillars supporting the streets and structures above—now weakened by time and tides.

Enter Jeroen Baars and his team: modern-day guardians working tirelessly to repair the damage. 'It’s like solving a giant underwater puzzle,' Baars told NewspaperAmigo.com. 'Every brick we replace keeps Amsterdam’s soul alive.'

Their mission isn’t just about preservation—it’s a race against climate change and mass tourism. As sea levels rise and visitor numbers grow, these unsung heroes balance history with 21st-century challenges. Next time you stroll those bridges, remember: behind every sunset photo op lies a story of resilience.

Reference(s):

My Day: A mysterious guardian of Amsterdam

cgtn.com