Happy TravellerWelcome to Berkel en Rodenrijs, a charming town located in the municipality of Lansingerland in the province of South Holland, The Netherlands. This picturesque town is situated just a stone’s throw away from the bustling city of Rotterdam, making it a perfect destination for those looking to explore both city life and rural charm.
History
Berkel en Rodenrijs has a rich history that dates back to the twelfth century. Originally, the land consisted of peat soil, which was used for the production of turf. Over the centuries, significant changes took place, including the draining of the moors and the development of polder land for agricultural use. As a result, the town underwent residential and commercial building developments, shaping its character into what it is today.
In 1850, the town had a population count of 1,250, which grew to 5,700 by 1950. The municipality of Tempel was also merged with Berkel en Rodenrijs in 1855, further contributing to its growth. On January 1, 2007, the town merged with the neighboring towns of Bergschenhoek and Bleiswijk to form the new municipality of Lansingerland.
Public Transport
Getting around Berkel en Rodenrijs and its surrounding areas is a breeze thanks to the efficient public transport system. The RandstadRail Line E and RET provide bus services, including the ZoRo bus (Zoetermeer – Rotterdam) which runs along a dedicated bus route through Lansingerland. This convenient route connects Zoetermeer Central Station to Rodenrijs Station, making it easy for visitors to explore the region.
Notable People
Berkel en Rodenrijs has been home to many talented individuals throughout history. Some notable people who were born or lived in the town include:
– Phil Bloom: An artist born in 1945
– Eimert van Middelkoop: A politician and former Minister of Defence born in 1949
– Peter Olsthoorn: An IT and multimedia freelance journalist born in 1960
– Piet Rietveld: A professor of transport economics at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (1952-2013)
– Victor Scheffers: An Olympic rower for the Netherlands in the 1980 Summer Games, born in 1960
– Tim Vincken: A professional football player for Feyenoord Rotterdam, born in 1986
– Peter-Paul Pigmans: A Dutch gabber music producer known for his production under the pseudonym 3 Steps Ahead (1961-2003)
– Rob Madna: A pianist, trumpeter, and composer (1931-2003)
– Annie M.G. Schmidt: A renowned Dutch poet and author of children’s books (1911-1995)
– Wibi Soerjadi: A pianist and composer, known for his prodigious talent, born in 1970
– Ardjoena Soerjadi: A musician and younger brother of Wibi Soerjadi
– Ria Visser: An all-round speed skater and former National Speed Skating Champion, born in 1961
– Kiki Bertens: A professional tennis player who reached the number 4 ranking in the world in May 2019, born in 1991
With such a diverse range of talented individuals, it’s no wonder that Berkel en Rodenrijs has become a hub of creativity and excellence.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Berkel en Rodenrijs has something to offer everyone. From exploring the town’s rich history to enjoying the beautiful landscapes, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. With its proximity to Rotterdam, you can easily venture into the city for a day trip and experience the vibrant urban culture.
Plan your visit to Berkel en Rodenrijs today and discover the hidden gems that await in this charming Dutch town.
