D.F. Wouda Steam Pumping Station

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As part of Holland’s never ender war against water, the enormous D.F. Wouda Steam Pumping Station was opened in 1920 by Queen Wilhelmina herself. Designed to pump excess water out of the Friesland province, the station is capable of pumping 1,000,000 gallons per minute. In 1967 the boilers were converted to run on heavy fuel after using coal for 47 years, and are always ready to be fired up if the station needs to help the J.L. Hooglandgemaal in Stavoren. Though it’s technically an active station, visitors can take a guided tour through this marvel of engineering, to better appreciate the mechanical aspects, as well as the stations aesthetic and architectural considerations, of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The modern visitors center houses a museum and plays a 3D movie to keep visitors entertained and informed.