The Wittehuis

The Witte Huis is a striking monument in Rotterdam’s skyline. Designed by the Van der Schuyt brothers, G.H. and H.M., this office building was constructed in 1897, inspired by American architecture. At 43 meters tall, it was briefly the tallest building in Europe.

Remarkably, the Witte Huis survived the 1940 bombing of Rotterdam—one of the few central buildings to remain standing. In the 1990s, careful restoration efforts brought the façade and roof back to their original glory.

Its front façade features five statues by artist Simon Miedema, representing Progress, Industry, Agriculture, Trade, and Maritime Power—the foundations of this monumental structure.

While the Witte Huis is not open for public tours, visitors can enjoy a modern experience on the ground floor at Grand Café and Cocktail Bar Restaurant Elit, blending history with contemporary city life.