Imagine stepping back in time at Velsen. Around 15 AD, the Romans saw the potential in this spot. Its sturdy dunes and the Oer-IJgeul made it ideal. They built a wooden fort and harbor. It was likely called Castellum Flevum.
The Roman historian Tacitus wrote about it. He described the local Germanic tribe, the Frisians. In 28 AD, they grew tired of Roman tax collectors. Tensions rose and the fort was besieged. The Romans hastily retreated.
Later around 40 AD, the Romans returned. They constructed a second castellum. Today, much of this area is a protected archeological site. It is a reminder of Velsen’s strategic importance long ago.
Velsen’s history extends beyond Roman times. In the 8th century, Willibrord established a small church here. It was one of the first in the Netherlands. In the 12th century, a tuff stone building replaced the wooden church. A century later, they added a tower and chapel. The Engelmunduskerk faced difficult times. During the Iconoclastic Fury in 1566, it was looted. Spanish forces damaged it during the Siege of Haarlem in 1573. Yet, each time it was rebuilt. The last major renovation was in 1773. The current tower spire dates back to 1818.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, wealthy Amsterdam merchants favored this area. They built beautiful country estates. Beeckestijn, Velserbeek, Waterland, and Schoonenberg are examples. They formed a ring along the former western shore of the Wijkermeer. Today, most of these estates are public parks.
The construction of the North Sea Canal from 1865 to 1876 had a profound impact on Velsen. It divided the municipality into north and south. New waterfront roads were built. The Velsen footbridge was completed in 1872. A steam tram operated between Haarlem and Alkmaar from 1896 to 1924. It crossed the North Sea Canal near Velsen.
Velsen-Noord experienced significant changes due to the canal. It became attractive to industries like Koninklijke Nederlandsche Hoogovens. This is now Tata Steel. The town planning was unique. The industry played a role as a builder.
During World War II, much of Velsen became part of the Atlantikwall. This was the German defense line. Nearly 1000 homes were lost in Velsen-Noord. A reconstruction plan was developed in 1947. Architects like W.M. Dudok and W. van Tijen contributed.
IJmuiden’s development is closely linked to the fishing industry and harbor activities. Fishermen quickly recognized IJmuiden as an ideal port. It was relatively close to fishing grounds. In 1942, the German occupiers created three wide firing ranges by demolishing parts of IJmuiden. Over 3200 homes were destroyed and 35000 residents were evacuated.
The past is palpable in Velsen. From Roman forts to elegant estates, Velsen offers glimpses into different eras. The resilience of its people is evident in the repeated rebuilding of the Engelmunduskerk. The strategic location of Velsen has shaped its destiny.