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Visit the States and Stinzen of Friesland

Stinzen

On the hundreds of mounds of medieval Fryslân there was often a stins: a habitable stone tower with very thick walls, to defend the inhabitants of the mound in times of armed conflict.

Aanzicht van de Schierstins in Veenwouden

Schierstins

 

Of these stone houses, only one remains (the Schierstins), and remnants can be found here and there. There are more of the first stone houses in the city (stadsstinzen), which have been significantly modified over time.

Zij-aanzicht van de Schierstins in Veenwouden

States

Many stinzen have been demolished, but some have developed: the resident (the 'chieftain') expanded his residence into a complex for which the name 'state' was used. Here too, most of them are no longer there. 

Aanzicht Dekema State

Dekemastate

(Jelsum)

 

The main building is a museum house and can be visited. The walled garden and estate are also accessible.

Staniastate

(Oentsjerk)

 

The main building is not open to the public. However, there is a brasserie, garden room, and terrace next door. The park is freely accessible.

Aanzicht Staniastate Oentsjerk
fogelsanghstate-veenklooster-2-lr.720x0.

Fogelsangh State

(Peat Monastery)

 

The building is open to the public (entrance fee applies). The surrounding garden, called Veenkloosterbos, is freely accessible for walking.

There are even more beautiful Staten and Stinzen throughout Friesland.

 

 

  • Vijversburg with a nature and cultural park in Tytsjerk. The surrounding park is open to the public (entrance fee)

  • De Klinze in Aldtsjerk. A "trial sleeping estate" and Grand Café (open weekends). The park is freely accessible.

  • The Lytse Slot in Veenklooster. The building and garden are not open to visitors due to private ownership.

  • Rinsmastate in Driezum. The main building is not open to the public. The garden and park are freely accessible.

 

 

For a complete overview, please visit this website .

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