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. 📸
