- Part 1: Zierikzee in Zeeland
- Part 2: Groningen
Muiden was also besieged during the long war at the end of the 16th century. This time, however, by the troops of the seven provinces themselves. However, the Spaniards trapped in the town were able to break the siege. Muiden initially remained in Spanish hands. When the war was over, negotiations were held with Utrecht about the construction of a sea lock, as the Vecht flowed into the Zuiderzee in Muiden. However, no agreement could be reached for decades.
An oversized lock
When Utrecht was finally occupied by the French, Muiden seized the opportunity and built the lock on its own initiative. It was intended to regulate the water levels inland, protect against storm surges and also serve as a defence.
In view of these tasks, the appearance of the structure is not surprising: it seems clearly oversized for today's use, but back then it was the difference between weal and woe. Speaking of today's use: as already mentioned, the lock connects the IJmeer, which is the southern part of the Markermeer, and the Vecht.
Cult pub and royal "dragon"
It runs beautifully through the prettiest and probably most prosperous parts of the Netherlands. But to get there, you have to pass through the lock. And this is a regular source of entertainment - the lock cinema. This is best viewed from Café Ome Ko, an absolute cult pub with a terrace overlooking the lock chambers. Worth seeing!
Muiden is easy to navigate: simply follow the fairway from the IJmeer. There are sailing clubs on both sides of the entrance, and the Lemsteraak of former Queen Beatrix, "De Groene Draeck", is moored in one of them. A little further on, there are also moorings for passers-by. Sailors should watch out for the branches of the trees on the water.
Berths in Muiden
Jachthaven Stichting Muiden, jachthavenmuiden.nlTel. harbour master +31 6 13 39 83 88, reservations are possible but can be difficult. The water depth is 2 to 2.3 metres.
- Part 1: Zierikzee in Zeeland
- Part 2: Groningen
Also interesting:
- Netherlands: IJsselmeer - the east and the province of Friesland
- Netherlands: IJsselmeer and Markermeer - the south and west
- Netherlands: Marker Wadden - completely natural
