Imagine peat being excavated. That’s how Markenbinnen began. Let’s explore this village in North Holland. It is a part of the municipality of Alkmaar. Markenbinnen lies about 10 km north of Zaandam.
Markenbinnen’s name hints at its past. First mentioned in 1395 or 1396 as Marken. It means “border line.” The village was once on a small island. “Binnen” was added to distinguish it from Marken. Markenbinnen grew in the Late Middle Ages. It became a peat excavation settlement. The Markervaart was dug around 1644. It separated the Markerpolder from the Oostwouderpolder.
The Dutch Reformed church has a wooden tower. It was built in 1704. It replaced a medieval predecessor. In 1840, Markenbinnen had 183 residents. Today, around 320 people call it home.
Fort Marken-Binnen played a role in defense. It was part of the Stelling van Amsterdam. Completed in 1905, it served during World War I and II as barracks. Military technology advanced. The fort became obsolete after World War II.
A cruise to Fort Marken-Binnen offers an experience. A boat trip takes you through North Holland’s landscape. Guides provide a tour of the fort. Treasure hunts add to the fun. Laser tag and escape rooms offer more excitement.
Fort Marken-Binnen defended the Markervaart. It protected the road along it. It also guarded the eastern bank of the Westwouderpolder. The fort was completed in 1905. An engineering shed was removed around 1940. It was rebuilt in 2007 using original drawings.
East of the fort is a secondary battery. This earthen wall dates from 1906. It features concrete positions for artillery.
The charming church in Markenbinnen has a story. The current Dutch Reformed Church was built in 1704. It replaced a Catholic chapel. The chapel likely honored the Heilige Maria. Services were led by a chaplain. Later, the pastor of Krommeniedijk took over.
The old chapel’s base was kept during the church’s construction. People were buried inside the church. An altar stone is visible in the floor. It measures 247 cm by 101 cm. This stone was once used as a doorstep.
Originally, the stone was a mensa. Mensa is Latin for table. It was an altar in the chapel. Five small crosses mark the five emblemata. Historians believe the altar mensa dates back to the 15th century. This suggests the chapel is also from that time.
In 1985, concert series began. The church was often full. After 25 years, the concerts ended due to funding cuts. In 2011, the church board continued the tradition. They organize concerts, theater, and lectures. They collaborate with the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. The church remains a special wedding location.
Markenbinnen. It is a village with a history. Its fort and church tell tales of defense and faith. From peat excavation to cultural events, Markenbinnen continues to evolve. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Dutch countryside.