Pernis

Pernis is a village and former municipality in the province of South Holland, Netherlands. It is now part of the municipality of Rotterdam and lies on the south bank of the Nieuwe Maas, to the west of central Rotterdam, within the Port of Rotterdam’s industrial area. The landscape is dominated by industrial and logistics infrastructure that supports the port.

Historically, Pernis existed as an independent municipality until it was incorporated into Rotterdam in the mid-20th century. The name persists in local districts and in major facilities such as the Shell Pernis refinery, one of the largest oil refineries in the Netherlands, which has been a central employer and source of economic activity in the area.

Beyond the refinery, Pernis contains residential neighborhoods, small businesses, and transportation routes that connect to Rotterdam and the broader Dutch road and rail networks. The area has a mixed character, balancing industrial operations with housing and local services.

Notable aspects include its waterfront location along the Nieuwe Maas and its role within the Rotterdam port complex. The region has undergone typical urban and industrial development associated with the Port of Rotterdam, with environmental and zoning measures governing industrial activity and residential use.

Pernis is frequently referenced in discussions of the Rotterdam port area, energy infrastructure, and regional planning. It remains an integral part of the Rotterdam municipality while retaining a distinct historical identity as a former municipality.