Happy TravellerWelcome to Rijswijk, a charming city located in the western Netherlands, in the province of South Holland. With a population of 55,220 in 2021 and an area of 14.49 km2 (5.59 sq mi), Rijswijk is a small but vibrant city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Rijswijk has something for everyone.
== History ==
Rijswijk has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. The village was dominated by the presence of mansions and estates of the nobility and affluent. Among the many country estates known to have been in Rijswijk are: The Treaty of Ryswick was signed at the Huis ter Nieuwburg in 1697, ending the Nine Years War. A monument, the Needle of Rijswijk (1792), was erected to commemorate the treaty in the Rijswijk Forest. Until 1900 Rijswijk remained a relatively small community, but it became urbanized during the 20th century when it expanded rapidly. Today, Rijswijk’s area has almost been completely built-up. The last major development is the new Ypenburg neighbourhood, built on the lands of the former Ypenburg Airfield, but this part of Rijswijk was annexed by The Hague in 2002.
== Demographics ==
Rijswijk has a diverse population, with 62% of Dutch background and 38% of non-Dutch background.
== Public transport ==
Rijswijk is well-connected to other parts of the Netherlands through its public transport system. Rijswijk station and Stopplaats Rijswijk-Wateringen are the two main train stations in the city. There are also several bus and tram lines that run through Rijswijk, making it easy to get around.
== Economy ==
Rijswijk is home to several major companies and organizations, including the Biomedical Primate Research Centre (BPRC), the Netherlands Patent Office, a large technology centre of the oil company Shell, and the Headquarters of TUI Netherlands. The city also has a small part of the Dutch national Forensic Laboratory, researching clues and objects in order to aid police investigations.
== Recreation ==
Rijswijk has several parks, including Hoekpolder, Plaspoelpolder, Schaapweipolder, Hoge Broekpolder, Noordpolder, Park Overvoorde, Wilhelminapark, Elsenburgerbos, and Park Steenvoorde. The city also has a natural swimming location called De Put and the Rijswijkse Schouwburg, which hosts many national theatre shows. The Von Fisenne Park has a petting zoo, and the Sports park De Schilp has an indoor swimming pool. Museum Rijswijk, located at Herenstraat 67, 2282 BR Rijswijk, has many works of art. The largest shopping center is called In de Bogaard, and smaller shops are located in the old town center (Herenstraat). There is also the old Schaapweimolen (windmill), and De Broodfabriek holds many fairs and events.
== Notable residents ==
Rijswijk has been home to many notable residents throughout history, including poet Hendrik Tollens, Dutch sociologist and academic Albert Benschop, and Dutch chess Grandmaster Anish Giri. The city has also produced several athletes, including football player Louis Otten, cyclist Piet van der Touw, and Dutch badminton player Mark Caljouw.
Come and explore Rijswijk, a hidden gem in the Netherlands that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. Whether you’re looking to relax in a park, explore a museum, or indulge in some delicious local cuisine, Rijswijk has something for everyone.
