Kerkje Westhem
Westhem
Between Blauwhuis and IJlst, along the ancient winding dikes that protected people in ancient times against the Middelzee, you can find the church of Westhem.
Take a look
Between Blauwhuis and IJlst, along the ancient winding dikes that protected people in ancient times against the Middelzee, you can find the church of Westhem. The church, located on the terp (an artificial mound) is dedicated to Saint Bartholomew and is called the Bartholomew's Church.
The church has witnessed many events. In the fourteenth century, Catholic services were held there, but later the church became Protestant. Around 1450, the church was damaged during conflicts between the Schieringers and the Vetkopers, and there was also a fire. In 1708, the church was demolished and rebuilt, while the church in the winter tower made of monastery bricks was preserved. The Ykema family played an important role in the reconstruction. With the arrival of the French around 1795, the family coats of arms on the existing tombstones were destroyed under the motto of equality.
