Hof van Weena

You are standing on the Weena, a street named after the Hof van Weena—a 13th-century castle. Built by the noble Bokel family, it featured a tower house roughly 10 by 12 meters, surrounded by a moat. Back then, it stood just outside the city on a dike. Today, the street name is a reminder of this historic site.

In the 13th and 14th centuries, the Maasmond region—where Rotterdam lies—had around 44 castles. These were fortified homes for vassals managing land for the Count of Holland. They enforced laws, collected rent, and maintained dikes, canals, and roads.

The Hof van Weena and Castle Bulgersteijn—built in 1333 by Dirk de Visser—were among the most notable. Bulgersteijn was initially at the edge of Rotterdam but came within city limits after the Coolsingel was dug in 1358.

Over time, many castles were lost to floods, war, or decay. Maintenance became too expensive. Yet some remains exist: in Hillegersberg, a part of a medieval castle still stands. If you have the time, it’s worth a visit. Like here at the Weena, Roods helps keep the story of old Rotterdam alive.