Across the placid waters of the Vinkeveense Plassen shimmers the iconic church of De Ronde Venen. This isn’t just any church. It’s affectionately known as the ‘Cathedral of De Ronde Venen’. Visible for miles it commands attention.
De Ronde Venen a municipality formed in 2011 is more than just pretty lakes. Its name speaks to its history. It translates to ‘The Round Fens’. This refers to the unique circular shape of the area. The shape was naturally carved by the meandering rivers. These include the Kromme Mijdrecht the Amstel the Waver the Winkel the Angstel and the Aa. They almost form a perfect circle.
For centuries the area’s lifeblood was peat. From the 15th century onwards peat from De Ronde Venen fueled the fires of nearby cities. The demand was relentless. It led to a distinct landscape. Wide lake areas punctuated by long narrow strips of land. These are called legakkers. They’re remnants of the peat extraction process. This continued until the 19th century when the lakes were drained. Agriculture then took over. However by the 1930s the peat industry was waning. Coal oil and gas made peat less desirable. By 1977 peat extraction near Vinkeveen ceased completely.
But the legacy remains. De Ronde Venen’s history is etched into its landscape. The wide lakes once vast peat bogs are now a haven for water sports enthusiasts. The museum De Ronde Venen offers a glimpse into this fascinating past. Nearby the Veenmolen a grinding mill preserves the life of a miller from bygone days. The charming castles of De Haar and Loenersloot add to the historical richness of the area.
The history of De Ronde Venen is a story of transformation. From a remote fenland it evolved into a treasured recreational area. It’s a testament to how humans shaped the land. The legacy of peat remains. Yet today’s visitors enjoy its beauty and tranquility. It’s a special place. A place where history and nature harmoniously coexist. Explore the lakes. Climb the church tower. Discover the stories etched in the very fabric of De Ronde Venen. You’ll find yourself captivated by its enduring charm.