Markthal - Rotterdam
THE NETHERLANDS
1,066
Parking spaces
20
Charging stations
92,000
Cubic metres of wet soil excavated
1
Elected best European car park of 2015
Parking beneath Rotterdam's masterpiece
Beneath the striking architecture of Rotterdam's Markthal lies an equally impressive feat of engineering: the city's largest car park, providing 1,066 convenient spaces. Since its opening in 2014, the Markthal itself has become a new icon for Rotterdam, blending a vibrant covered market with shops, offices, and apartments. Its immense arch, adorned with Arno Coenen's 11,000 m² of shimmering floral motifs, is renowned as one of the world's largest artworks, leading some to call it Rotterdam's "Sistine Chapel."
Overcoming subterranean challenges
Building an underground car park in Rotterdam presents a unique set of challenges, especially given the city's location at the confluence of the Rhine and Meuse rivers, where the subsoil is saturated with water. This necessitated an unconventional approach: the construction, particularly the crucial concrete foundation, was poured entirely underwater. This complex process required the specialized work of divers and the implementation of highly demanding construction techniques. The significant effort, however, was worthwhile.
A leading parking facility
With its 1,066 spaces, the Markthal car park stands as the largest in the Netherlands' economic capital. It offers visitors the convenience of online reservations and proudly belongs to the category of "ECO Car Parks," where pricing is thoughtfully linked to a vehicle's CO₂ emissions. This commitment to both capacity and environmental awareness underscores its modern approach.
Recognized excellence
The quality and innovative design of the Markthal car park have not gone unnoticed. In 2015, it was honored with the prestigious "Best New Car Park in Europe" award at the European Parking Association (EPA) conference. This recognition highlights its blend of functional excellence and strategic integration within one of Rotterdam's most celebrated architectural achievements.