Douane Museum

Belasting & Douane Museum, the tax and customs museum

The Belasting & Douane Museum in Rotterdam is a museum dedicated to the history of taxes, customs and smuggling in the Netherlands. Although this may seem like an unusual subject for a museum, its collection offers a different way of discovering the country’s economic and commercial history.

The museum was founded in 1937 by Prof. Dr. J. van der Poel, a senior tax and customs official who wanted to use objects and stories to teach students about the history of taxation. Its connection with Rotterdam is no coincidence: as a major port city and an important gateway for goods entering Europe, customs has played an important role in the history of the city.

The history of taxes and customs

The collection covers centuries of history and shows how taxation and customs controls have evolved in the Netherlands. Among the objects on display are historical documents and prints, paintings, photographs, uniforms, tax stamps, measuring instruments and various objects related to trade and tax collection.

One of the most fascinating parts of the museum is dedicated to smuggling. Through different objects and examples, visitors can discover some of the ingenious methods used to try to bring goods illegally across borders.

A museum also designed for families

The museum combines its historical collection with temporary exhibitions, activities, workshops and interactive experiences. Some of its activities allow visitors to discover how customs officers work and what happens to goods entering and leaving the country.

Because of its interactive approach and its fascinating stories about smuggling and customs, it can also be an interesting visit for families with children. The museum regularly offers activities and discovery trails especially aimed at younger visitors.

Belasting & Douane Museum: Practical information

Other museums in Rotterdam

40-45 NOW | Chabot Museum | Fenix Museum | Het Nieuwe Instituut | Kunsthal | Kunstinstituut Melly | Mariniers Museum | Maritiem Museum | Museum Boijmans | Natuurhistorisch Museum | Nederlands Fotomuseum| Wereldmuseum