Plompe Tower
Zeeland
Plompe Tower is a 23-meter tall church tower located just inside the Oosterschelde dike on the island of Schouwen-Duiveland in Zeeland, Netherlands. It is the only surviving structure of the former village of Koudekerke, which was lost to the encroaching waters of the Oosterschelde estuary. The tower was originally part of a church rebuilt in 1468 by Lodewijk van Gruuthuuse after the old church had fallen into disrepair around 1400. In 1581, a dike was constructed through the village, leading to its abandonment and the demolition of the church in 1583; however, the tower was left standing and served as a navigational beacon for ships sailing to Antwerp. Over the centuries, the tower became partially embedded within the dike, with a hollow created around its base in the inner curve of the Oosterschelde dike. Despite damage during World War II and threats of demolition due to nesting birds, the tower was restored multiple times throughout the 20th century, notably in 1935, 1962, and the late 2010s. It is currently managed by the nature conservation organization Vereniging Natuurmonumenten and attracts many visitors due to its unique location and historical significance as a maritime landmark.
ヒント: The best time to visit Plompe Tower is during the warmer months when the surrounding nature reserve is accessible and pleasant for walking. Visitors should consider checking the official Natuurmonumenten website for any guided tours or events. Since the tower is part of a protected area, it is advisable to respect the natural environment and stay on marked paths. There are no entrance fees, but donations to the managing foundation are appreciated. Booking is generally not required, but visiting during weekdays may offer a quieter experience.
興味深い事実
- •Plompe Tower is the sole remaining structure of the drowned village of Koudekerke, lost to the Oosterschelde estuary.
- •The tower stands embedded within the Oosterschelde dike, with a hollow created around its base inside the dike's curve.
- •It served as a navigational beacon for ships sailing to Antwerp when the Westerschelde was not yet navigable.
- •Restoration in 1935 was partly funded by the Dutch royal family and local citizens.
- •During World War II, nearly all houses around the tower were demolished by German occupation forces, causing damage to the tower itself.
歴史
The Plompe Tower originated from a church rebuilt in 1468 by Lodewijk van Gruuthuuse after the original church had fallen into ruin around 1400.
In 1581, a dike was constructed through the village of Koudekerke, which led to the village's abandonment and the church's demolition in 1583, leaving only the tower standing.
The tower served as a beacon for ships navigating the Oosterschelde en route to Antwerp.
In the early 20th century, the tower was in ruin and surrounded by a few houses, which were later demolished during World War II under German orders, causing damage to the tower.
Restoration efforts were undertaken in 1935, 1962, and 1974, with the latest major restoration completed around 2019-2020.
Since 1997, the tower has been managed by Vereniging Natuurmonumenten.
場所ガイド
Plompe Tower Structure1468
The 23-meter high tower is the only remnant of the medieval church of Koudekerke. Visitors can admire its brick architecture and the unique setting embedded within the Oosterschelde dike, offering a striking contrast between history and nature.
連絡先
電話: 06 41775069
