Victory begins at Alkmaar: How a flooded landscape saved a Dutch city from siege

Countries & Cities · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In 1573, the citizens of Alkmaar faced a brutal Spanish siege. Their salvation came from a desperate, radical decision: flooding their own land to repel the invaders. This pivotal moment in the Eighty Years War remains etched in the city's identity, celebrated annually as the day victory began at Alkmaar.

The history of Alkmaar is defined by its resilience against both water and war. Situated on an ancient sand bank, the city was granted city rights in 1254. Centuries later, during the Eighty Years War, it became the site of a legendary standoff. In 1573, Spanish forces led by Don Fadrique besieged the town. Facing imminent defeat, the citizens appealed to the Prince of Orange, who made the fateful choice to breach the dykes. As the waters rose, the Spanish were forced to flee, marking a turning point that birthed the enduring local proverb: Victory begins at Alkmaar.

Today, this legacy is commemorated every 8 October during Alkmaars Ontzet. The festivities include a lantern procession, a formal parade, and a traditional communal meal of sauerkraut and sausage. Beyond its martial history, the city is globally recognized for its traditional cheese market at the Waagplein. Operating from the first Friday in April to the first Friday in September, this event demonstrates historical merchant practices, such as the ceremonial hand clap used to finalize sales. While the market itself is a demonstration, the surrounding area offers a deep dive into Dutch heritage, including the Holland Cheese Museum housed in the historic weigh house.

Alkmaar has evolved significantly since its medieval origins. The 19th century brought industrial connectivity, with the opening of the North Holland Canal in 1824 and the arrival of railways connecting the city to Haarlem and Den Helder. The 20th century saw rapid expansion, particularly between the late 1970s and early 1990s, when the population nearly doubled. Following municipal mergers in 2015, the city now incorporates areas like Graft-De Rijp and Schermer. With 399 registered rijksmonuments and a vibrant cultural scene—ranging from the Beatles Museum to professional football at the AFAS Stadion—Alkmaar balances its deep historical roots with a modern, suburban identity.

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