Paul van de Laar

Paul van de Laar is a Full Professor and Endowed Professor in the Department of History at the Erasmus School of History, Culture and Communication, Erasmus University Rotterdam. His work bridges academic research and public engagement, focusing on urban history, cultural heritage, and the evolution of port cities, particularly Rotterdam.

His research interests include:

• Urban History and Waterfront Development
• Migration and Identity in Dutch Cities
• Sustainable Transitions in Culture & Societies (STiCS)
• Heritage & Identity (HI)
• Port Cities and Economic Inequality
• Public and Participatory Museums

His publications reflect a deep engagement with the historical transformation of urban landscapes, especially waterfronts, and the sociocultural dynamics of port cities. He explores themes such as modernity, migration, and public space, often linking past developments to contemporary urban challenges. His work appears in journals like Urban Planning and Journal of Urban History, as well as in books and public-facing media.

Recent articles highlight trends in:

• Historical urban planning and infrastructure (e.g., shipping canals, tunnels)
• Migration narratives and identity in Rotterdam
• The role of museums in community engagement
• Economic inequality mapped through historical waterfront development
• Public commemorations and media commentary on urban history

He is actively involved in academic and public discourse, contributing to editorial boards, conferences, and media outlets such as NOS and RTV Rijnmond. His work in the European Journal of Creative Practices in Cities and Landscapes underscores his interdisciplinary approach.

Paul van de Laar supervises academic work and contributes to research clusters including STiCS and HI. He has delivered numerous talks and presentations on Rotterdam’s past, present, and future, emphasizing the city’s evolving identity. His outreach includes public lectures, library events, and television appearances, making history accessible beyond academia.