Afrikaanderwijk and Street Art

Welcome to Afrikaanderwijk – a neighborhood that pulses with history and color. Here in Rotterdam South, traces of the past and expressions of the future sometimes meet on the same wall.

Built around 1900 to house dockworkers, the street names still reference South African cities and leaders. But the district is more than a nod to colonial ties. In the 1970s, Afrikaanderwijk made national headlines during protests and riots over the housing of guest workers. It was a turning point in the Dutch housing and integration debate. You can listen to that story in the Roods app.

Today, the neighborhood stands out for its creativity. If you're into street art, this is your place. Murals decorate nearly every corner. Names like Telmo Miel, Smug, and Nina Valkhoff appear boldly across facades. Each piece tells a story—of the neighborhood, its people, and their resilience.

Then there's the Afrikaandermarkt. Twice a week, the square fills with sounds, scents, and colors from around the world. With over 200 stalls, it’s one of the liveliest markets in Rotterdam.

You don’t need to be an art expert to love this place. Just take a look around.