The All Saints’ Flood of 1570 1570

This medal, now known as ‘The All Saints’ Flood of 1570’ was anonymously created in 1570 in the Netherlands. It commemorates a cataclysmic flood on All Saints' Day, which tragically reshaped the lives and landscapes of the Low Countries. The imagery on the coin offers a glimpse into the anxieties and realities of a society grappling with nature's destructive power. The lion submerged in water poignantly symbolizes the Dutch struggle against the flood. It serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of environmental disasters, as it claimed the lives of countless individuals, reshaping communities and leaving an indelible mark on the collective psyche. This medal encapsulates a pivotal moment of environmental crisis, prompting reflections on vulnerability, resilience, and the enduring impact of historical events. It invites us to consider how such calamities shape not only the physical world but also the social, emotional, and cultural fabric of societies.