Monnickendam, Marken and Broek in Waterland

The Waterland region is a flat area with a beautiful openness, perfect for a cycling tour. The low-lying peat meadow area, crisscrossed with numerous ditches and waterways, is protected from the encroaching water by the Waterlandse Zeedijk (Waterlandse Sea Dike). Low embankments were constructed starting in the twelfth century and gradually raised. Despite the dikes, Waterland remained a wet and marshy area. Arable farming was almost impossible, so dairy products were traded extensively at the markets. Common dialects in Waterland are Volendam and Marken. The Marken peninsula, a protected townscape, has a turbulent history with the surrounding water, and its inhabitants have always been at war to protect their homes from the water. Mounds were constructed, and later, houses were even built on stilts. Marken increasingly became a tourist attraction, particularly due to its characteristic houses and traditional costumes. Also special is the Marken lighthouse, called Paard van Marken (The Horse of Marken), built around 1700 as a square beacon. The white concrete tower and its outbuilding are still used as a light signal. The tower is sixteen meters tall and was designated a national monument in 1970. Monnickendam is also a pleasant town to cycle through. This city boasts many monuments, the most famous of which is the Speeltoren (Sound Tower). This historic town hall tower houses the oldest hand-playable carillon in the Netherlands. Since 1981, the Speeltoren has housed a museum where visitors can learn more about the history of Monnickendam and Waterland. Want to learn more about Laag Holland's best-kept secrets? Visit www.laagholland.com and be inspired.