Netherlands

Santiago's Arm Relic in Roermond (The Netherlands) 

Along the Camino, where pilgrims tread,
Santiago's relic, by faith is led.
In Roermond's cathedral, a treasure rare,
Guiding the faithful with tender care.

A symbol of journey, through trials untold,
Santiago's arm, a beacon bold.
In the heart of the cathedral's embrace,
Seekers find solace, in its sacred space.

Oh Santiago, guide us along the way,
In Roermond's sanctuary, forever stay.
Your relic whispers tales of old,
On the Camino, where stories unfold.

Saint Christopher’s Cathedral in Roermond

Saint Hyppolytus church in Middelstum (The Netherlands)

Interior of the Saint Hyppolytus church in Middelstum (15th century).

The Sint-Hippolytuskerk, located in Middelstum, Groningen, Netherlands, is a historic church with origins dating back to the 12th century. Originally constructed in Romanesque style, the church underwent significant renovations and expansions over the centuries, evolving into the Gothic-style structure seen today.

The church is dedicated to Saint Hippolytus, a third-century martyr and one of the earliest antipopes in Christian history. It served as a focal point for religious and community life in Middelstum, hosting worship services, weddings, and other ceremonies for centuries.

Op it Wad (in Frisian)

View on Ameland and Schiermonnikoog from Holwerd.

Op it Wad, dêr't it ljocht en 'e skyming spylje,
Dêr't de wolkens dûnsje, de sinne har wylje.
It brûzen fan 'e see, it rûzjen fan 'e wyn,
Op it Wad, dêr't de natuer yn harmonije fyn.

De fûgels, swalkjend oer it wetter sa wiet,
Se fljochtmeitsje en sjonge, harren liet ferriedt.
Op it Wad, dêr't se frij binne yn 'e loft,
Har skiednis en takomst, yn 'e wyn ferknoft.

O Wad, dyn skientme is in eare wurdich,
Dyn libben, dyn ljocht, dyn see, sa ryk en suver.
Fryslân syn skat, syn Waad, sa wûnderlik en wreed,
Op it Wad, dêr't it libben syn hert en siel fermeitsje mei.

Wierum (The Netherlands)

Tsjerkestrjitte with view on the Maria church, Wierum,13th century.

Nestled on the eastern edge of the Wadden Sea in Friesland, The Netherlands, Wierum is a charming Dutch village steeped in centuries of history. Its quaint streets, adorned with traditional architecture and colorful cottages, offer a glimpse into rural life. Fishing has long been integral to Wierum's culture, while its proximity to the Wadden Sea National Park invites exploration of tidal flats and diverse wildlife. Whether enjoying serene walks or indulging in fresh seafood, Wierum promises an authentic Dutch experience amidst its idyllic surroundings.

In memory of Margareta Gysberts - Grietjens Gericht (Beesel, The Netherlands)

Grietjens Gericht, near Beesel.

East of Beesel (The Netherlands), near the border with Germany, atop a more than 4000-year-old burial mound, stands a wagon wheel on a pole. This wagon wheel is a reference to Beesel's execution site from the 17th century. At that time, a (Saint) Catherine('s) wheel and gallows stood at this location.

This execution site is known as the "Grietjens Gericht," named after Margareta Gysberts, or Grietje. In 1651, she was executed at this location as a maid and displayed on such a wheel as a deterrent example.

She worked for the secretary of the bench courts in the Montfort who lived in Beesel. She had been raped by a servant and her newborn child had died from suffocation. At first, she denied it, but under torture, she confessed. In a panic, after being sick in bed for a while and giving birth when she was alone at home, she had wrapped the child too tightly in cloths, causing it to suffocate.

The court found her guilty, and she was transported to the courthouse to undergo her death sentence.

Did justice happen here?