A whisper of wind carries stories through Rijpwetering. It is a village in South Holland. This place, first noted in 1342, is now home to about sixteen hundred people. But it began long before that as land was reclaimed around the year 1300.
Rijpwetering means bank of a waterway. This name fits perfectly with its history. Canals drain the ripe grounds transforming the wilderness. It is here, in the polder landscape, that people settled.
Rijpwetering played a role in history. The Watergeuzen once found refuge here during the Relief of Leiden. This long history shaped the village. It boasts many monumental buildings that look very authentic.
Look around. You will see the village is characterized by the Rijpwetering canal. Authentic houses line the canal, alongside the church. This creates a picturesque view.
Notice the mills that dot the landscape. Rijpwetering has seven mills. If you sail on the Koppoel or Kleipoel, you’ll see several. These mills are national monuments.
The Vergulde Vos is another national monument. It once served as a courthouse with a prison. Today, it is a cozy eatery. You can enjoy the most beautiful sunset from its terrace.
Do you like cheese? Rijpwetering is known for its cheese farms. Rotteveel Boerenkaas has a cheese wall. Landwinkel Castelein is also well-stocked with local cheeses.
Many know Rijpwetering as the home of Joop Zoetemelk. He was a famous cyclist. He won many races. Now, the Joop Zoetemelkpad runs from Rijpwetering to Roelofarendsveen. You can see a statue of him at Restaurant RYP. It honors this famous former resident of Rijpwetering.
The Catholic O.L. Vrouwe Geboorte Church is beautiful. It has three aisles and a built-in tower. It was built between 1858 and 1860 in Gothic Revival style. The church was restored between 1997 and 2000.
Consider the Lijkermolen No.1 and No.2. These polder mills were built in 1780. They are unique twelve-sided windmills. They are frequently in service.
From its early days as a peat excavation site to its current charm, Rijpwetering is a place of history and beauty.