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Euromast

The Euromast was designed by Hugh Maaskant between 1958 and 1960 for the Floriade international horticultural exhibition in Rotterdam. The tower was conceived as both an observation platform and a symbol of the city’s post-war reconstruction and technological optimism.

The main structure consists of a tall reinforced-concrete shaft supporting a steel observation platform known as the Crow’s Nest. Maaskant deliberately chose a simple and timeless form that could stand prominently within Rotterdam’s dynamic harbour landscape.

The construction itself was an important part of the design. The concrete shaft was built using sliding formwork, while the large steel observation platform was assembled at ground level and subsequently lifted into position.

The Euromast originally stood approximately 100 metres high and quickly became one of Rotterdam’s defining landmarks. In 1970, the Space Tower was added, bringing the total height to approximately 185 metres.

The tower demonstrates Maaskant’s characteristic combination of engineering, monumentality and modern technology. It is not simply a building but an urban instrument, offering visitors a new perspective on the rapidly changing city.

Today the Euromast remains one of Rotterdam’s best-known landmarks, with observation facilities, a restaurant and hotel accommodation.