The Month of the Underground celebrates its 15th anniversary this year! With new activities and returning old favorites. And since its a birthday, there are prizes to be won throughout the month.

During the Month of the Underground, you step into the hidden world of Rotterdam. Discover the world that exists beneath your feet with lectures, excursions, workshops, and films. Two old favorites are back: the bascule cellar of the Erasmus Bridge and the bunker in the Spanish Polder.

4 Themes

The Month of the Underground is divided into 4 themes, as every year. Week 1 focuses on history, week 2 on climate adaptation, week 3 on biodiversity, and week 4 teaches you more about the energy transition. 
Returning this year is the bascule cellar of the Erasmus Bridge (possible again after renovation work last year) and the bunker in the Spanish Polder.

New program components, by week:

  • History Presentation on recent archaeological excavations at Rotta Nova and a tour of the City Archives
  • Climate How can the sewer contribute to the climate: riothermy
  • Biodiversity Living soil: this year much attention is given to what you can do to make the soil in your garden or balcony healthier.
  • Energy Grid congestion of electricity, also in Rotterdam.

Additionally, this year we are going beyond the city limits: to Delft! In week 2 you can visit The Green Village at the TU Delft Campus. Here you will discover innovative solutions for a sustainable city.

Photo Contest

Throughout November, visitors of the Month of the Underground can take photos and email them to maandvandeondergrond@rotterdam.nl. Link opens an external page. Three winners will be chosen, each of whom may bring 2 guests. The winners can choose from 3 excursions: the Maastunnel, the water storage of the Museum Park, or the bascule cellar of the Erasmus Bridge. 

Winners will be notified in December. The jury consists of the team of the Month of the Underground and a professional photographer. 

Want to know more about the program and the competition? Visit rotterdam.nl/maand-van-de-ondergrond. Link opens an external page.