The Oosterscheldekering (Eastern Scheldt storm surge barrier) is the largest in a series of 13 dams designed to protect the Netherlands from North Sea flooding. It spans about 5.6 miles (9 km) between the islands of Schouwen-Duiveland and Noord-Beveland, containing large sluicegate-type doors that can be closed under adverse weather conditions. Designed to last more than 200 years, the Oosterscheldekering is sometimes referred to as the eighth Wonder of the World.