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The battle with the water

6.5 metres below sea level.

Water sloshes against the Dike in the Zeevang Polder. The Etersheimer break with the mill, the visitor centre and you can see two people walking Two people standing by an information board about Etersheim

Water and land as a dynamic duo

In Zeevang, water and land come together as a dynamic duo. The island of Zeevang used to be enclosed by the Zuiderzee and the inland seas of Beemster and Purmer. The polder created as early as the 13th century was further protected by an inventive system of dykes and water control in 1532. This system is still in operation and can be clearly seen in several places.

The Markermeerdijk runs from Hoorn to Amsterdam and has protected residents in the hinterland from the threat of water for centuries. The dyke looks calm now, but over the centuries it has been through a lot.

In 1916, a storm surge made the dike too much and broke in several places, allowing the water to wreak havoc in the Zeevang and surrounding areas. To prevent a similar disaster in the future, the dike is still being raised and reinforced.

The drowned village of Etersheim

Present-day Etersheim lies between Hoorn and Edam, but it has not always been that way. About 1100 years ago, the first village arose outside the dikes. Due to subsiding soil and a weak dike, Etersheim had to move in the 15th century. The old village eventually disappeared in the waves.

The finest archaeological finds from this drowned village can be viewed in Archaeological Mini Museum De Waterwolf.

Experience route Eterheim

Go on an adventure in Etersheim! This 3 km route takes you past special places full of history and stories. Scan QR codes along the way for in-depth stories!

Discover the route
Two people standing by an information board about Etersheim

On expedition

For a real expedition, visit the Etersheimerbraakpolder. Here you can see with your own eyes how the inhabitants of Zeevang ensured dry feet. In this place, the battle against water is extra special. It is in fact the lowest point in North Holland, more than 6.5 metres below sea level!

Experience this story & more here:

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    The delightful lowlands Sheep on the dyke near Scharwoude.

    In Zeevang, water and land come together as a dynamic duo. Find out more about the battle with the water.

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