Oosthuizen

Journey back to the 12th century. A small settlement emerges from the peat excavations in the Zeevang polder. This is the birth of Oosthuizen, meaning “eastern houses”. The name itself whispers of humble beginnings. Oosthuizen grew. In 1292, it achieved the status of a free heerlijkheid, a self-governing entity. Oosthuizen stands as a testament to its rich history. The Dutch Reformed church, a cruciform structure, watches over the village. Its choir and transept date back to 1511, while the nave was added in 1518. The Catholic Franciscus van Assisi Church adds another layer to Oosthuizen’s spiritual landscape. This unique church started its life as a residential home and was transformed into a place of worship in 1960. Oosthuizen has seen its share of changes over the centuries. Once a separate municipality, it became part of Zeevang in 1970. Later, in 2016, it joined the municipality of Edam-Volendam. Despite these shifts, Oosthuizen retains its distinct charm. The village’s story is interwoven with the lives of its people. One such figure is Adriaan de Bruin, an enslaved servant of the Dutch politician Adriaan van Bredehoff, who lived in Oosthuizen around 1700. Oosthuizen invites you to explore its past. As you stand here, imagine the generations who have walked these streets before you. Their stories echo in the gentle breeze that rustles through the trees, in the stones of the church, and in the quiet murmur of the Beemster Ringvaart. Oosthuizen’s legacy lives on.