Holwerd

Holwerd ( Frisian: Holwert ) is a village in the municipality Dongeradeel in the Dutch province of Friesland. It has 1640 inhabitants (2008 ) and is the largest village in the municipality Dongeradeel.

In the north of Holwerd there is a pier, which is the most important ferry to and from Ameland. This pier was created in 1872 and rebuilt in the following years a few times. In Holwerd are milk lines, which transport the milk from the farmers of Ameland to Holwerd.

History

Holwerd is originated in the 8th century on different mounds. In the Middle Ages Holwerd was a significant Seehandelszentrum. Many older buildings such as a blacksmith shop, a warehouse, and many different churches from the 18th, 19th, and partly also the 20th century are still preserved in Holwerd. The oldest church in the village dates from the year 1778.

Near the Pier is an old ferry that was used during the Napoleonic occupation, to make smugglers identified. The ferry offered to it, since it allowed a clear view of the lake. Along the dike in the direction of Ternaard are many memorial stones to find the casualties in World War II pilots.

In Holwerd is the De Hoop mill, which was built in 1713 and was taken over in 1994 by a local foundation with the purpose of receipt of mills in Dongeradeel. Until the local government reform of 1984 Holwerd belonged to Westdongeradeel.