Vianen, Gorinchem, Leerdam

This route takes you through the area where the water engineering projects of Jan Blanken (1755–1838) have shaped the landscape. Blanken lived and worked in Vianen and played a major role in the development of Dutch water management. As a hydraulic engineer, he contributed to projects such as the Hollandic Waterline and is regarded as one of the inventors of the fan lock (waaiersluis), a distinction he shares with Dutch architect and hydraulic engineer Jan ten Holt (1731–1805). Jan Blanken is also considered the founding figure of Rijkswaterstaat, the executive agency of the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.

In 2018, the Jan Blanken Vianen Foundation commissioned a monument dedicated to Blanken. This informative monument highlights both the man and his hydraulic engineering legacy. It consists of several elements explaining the operation of the famous fan lock and other major projects, including the North Holland Canal, the dry dock in Hellevoetsluis and the Great Lock of Vreeswijk. A separate section tells the story of Jan Blanken’s life. Near junction 02 in Vianen, on the opposite side of the Merwede Canal, you will find Jan Blankenweg and the monument.

Cycle along the centuries-old Diefdijk and past uniquely situated forts. Ride through historic fortified towns and polders with beautiful panoramic views. Follow the junction network and discover the area where Jan Blanken lived and worked for many years.