Why You Should Visit Hindeloopen (the Netherlands)

Den Hague, Utretch, and, of course Amsterdam are all well known cities in The Netherlands and certainly worth the visit. However, there is a lesser known city in the northern most province of the Netherlands that is a "must see" as well. The city is Hindeloopen and it rests by the sea in the northern most province of the Netherlands, Freisland (Fryslân).

The old center exudes Hindeloopen's unique style and culture. The streets are narrow and allow you to feel as if you have entered another time. The general location of the village is quite isolated which contributed to the development of their own language (a mix of Frisian, English, Danish and Norwegian). The street signs still reflect both Fresian and Dutch names. The people of the village are quite warm and receptive. During a recent visit, we were treated to an informal tour of the city in which we were provide a in depth look at the history of this community. Our tour guide, a local student, was quite proud of her heritage - as she should be - and was happy to provide us with a greater understanding or the surroundings.

The city is most well known for the local art and costume. Originally established in 1225, the city began its history as a shipping village. In 1368, it became a member of the Hanseatic-league, an alliance of trading shippers that maintained control over the trading monopoly in the Baltic Sea and Northern Europe. Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, the village was quite prosperous and locals were able to purchase precious fabrics from the capital, Amsterdam. As such, this wealthy area developed its own style of costumes and colorful hand-painted furniture and tiles.

Like other Dutch cities, Hindeloopen has plenty of canals which can be crossed by means of the beautiful wooden bridges. The houses and shops are picturesque and often display the unique Hindeloopen paintings throughout. There is a unique blend of "old" and "new" buildings. This is a result of the Christmas flood in 1717 which washed away a large portion of the city. Once the zeedijk (sea dike) was built (completion in 1933), much of the city was rebuilt.

The area is quiet and quaint. It represents a completely relaxing holiday in an absolutely gorgeous setting. There are a few sites to see including the Lock with East Tower, Old Harbour, Zijlroede, West Tower and Church, and the Museum Hindeloopen. The museum will provide an indepth look at the maritime history and culture of the village. The very specific, regional Hindeloopen art and old costumes are also on display.

The buildings in the area have a history all their own. The museum is housed in the old townhall (used 1683 - 1919). The statue of Lady Justice still hands on the side entrance. Inside, the rooms are decorated with 17th and 18th century tiles. Along the outside of the museum rests the gallows (galgepolle). Just down the street is the Harbour Master's House. The clock tower leans a bit from the weight of time and the effects of battling the elements. Walking down the smaller streets will bring one to seacaptains houses, some of which still display the anchor hanging on the façade. This symbol represents the captains ability to accept freight. A walk down to the canals will bring the "likhus" in view. These little houses housed the family of the sailors when they were out to sea.

The beaches in the area allow for swimming, surfing and fishing in the summer and, of course, a walk with such breathtaking beauty is always in order. The old harbour has a small variety of bars and restaurants which make it possible to enjoy a meal while watching the boats come and go across the lake (IJsselmeer).

Hindeloopen is one of 11 cities in Friesland, all with their own history and within close proximity (driving) to each other. There is much to see in the area but the highlight is this small sea town with a history larger than life.