De Oude Toren

De Oude Toren, the Old Tower, is the lighthouse in Hollum on the island of Ameland, one of the Dutch Wadden Islands. It stands about fifty-five metres tall, built of cast iron and painted in red and white, and it is one of the tallest lighthouses in the country. It was built in 1880 during the reign of King Willem III and designed by Quirinus Harder, the engineer who also designed other iron lighthouses on the Dutch coast, and it has been a landmark of the island ever since.

The tower was needed because of the dangers of the sea around the Wadden Islands. The area has shifting sandbanks, strong currents and storms, and many ships were wrecked on the coast over the centuries. Island communities depended on shipping, salvage, whaling and fishing, and the lighthouse played a central role in the safety of the sea routes. Ameland itself has a history of whaling captains, and Hollum was one of the villages that grew rich on the trade. The light shone out to guide ships along the dangerous coast.

Today the lighthouse no longer works as an active navigation light for the coast guard, but it has taken on a new life. It houses a radar system that monitors ship traffic in the Wadden Sea, and it is open to visitors as a museum and viewing point. The climb to the platform involves a long spiral of two hundred and thirty-six steps through the interior, passing a number of floors with exhibitions that explain the history of the lighthouse and of the keepers who lived and worked in it. A recreated watchkeeper's room gives an impression of their daily life, and digital stories told by former keepers add a personal touch.

The view from the top is the reward. On a clear day, you can see across the whole island, with its dunes, villages and long beaches, and out over the Wadden Sea to the mainland coast and the neighbouring islands. The wind at the top can be strong, so bring a jacket. The climb is not suitable for those with heart or knee problems, and young children should be supervised.

Hollum has a village centre with cafes and shops, and the beach at Hollum is one of the best on the island. Ameland's other sights include the harbour at Nes, the library and the Wadlopen Center, where you can arrange guided walks across the mudflats. The lighthouse suits families, photographers and anyone who likes a climb. Check opening times, which vary by season.