Terpen and Villages: A Hilly Landscape

In the flat and expansive Wadden region behind the sea dike, they stand out: the terpen, artificial dwelling mounds that form a unique "hilly landscape." People found life good behind that dike. As early as the 6th century BC, it was clear that the silt deposited by the sea had created fertile soil, and who wouldn't love that? But the sea wasn't always so friendly, and the population soon grew tired of regularly seeing their household belongings floating away. And so, this land, shaped by nature, was further enriched by humans. With terpen. Where, of course, you would find the church in the centre, surrounded by houses. At least, that's how many terpen were laid out. But there were also so-called "huisterpen," where farmers built a mound for their farmhouse and outbuildings. If the sea surged again, at least their homes would be spared.

Terp Hegebeintum

The highest terp in the Netherlands is a remarkable 8.80 meters above sea level. Of course, that may seem insignificant compared to, say, the Cauberg in Valkenburg, with its 134 meters. But still, the first time you see a terp rising abruptly from the flat landscape, it's a surprising sight. Especially when you consider that it was built by human hands. There's much more to tell about terpen; you can learn more at the visitor centre in Hegebeintum. Just set out and explore these unique places!

Terpen Route - Wadden Tour

It's estimated that there are still around 1,200 terpen in the entire Wadden region. Some are visible from a distance, while others you almost unknowingly end up on. In these villages, time seems to have stood still. In Northeast Friesland, besides Hegebeintum, there are terpen in Anjum, Bornwird, Dokkum, Ee, Engwierum, Foudgum, Holwerd, Jouswier, Metslawier, Raard, Wierum, Genum, Hallum, Jislum, Lichtaard, Marrum, Reitsum, Wanswerd, and Westernijkerk.

And discover the protected terp villages of Ee, Holwerd, Metslawier, and Paesens/Moddergat by car or bike!