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Discover the de Graanrepubliek Republic of the Netherlands

Welcome to Oldambt - the region where grain, history and character come together. As the former granary of Europe, this area is bursting with stories: about powerful gentleman farmers, belligerent workers and a landscape shaped by agriculture and innovation. On this page you will find a rich collection of 'grain grains ' - little facts about special places, historical events and surprising facts from de Graanrepubliek. From the Netherlands' only bird-watching hut outside the dike to Europe's longest cycle bridge, Oldambt surprises at every turn.

Grain Republic

Did you know that Oldambt is the municipality where the most grain is grown? Over 8000 hectares! That's why we rightly call it 'De Graanrepubliek'.

Welcome to Oldambt, once the granary of Europe. In this region, gentleman farmers set the scene, workers fought for their rights and grain brought wealth and change. The history of de Graanrepubliek lives on in local stories, socialist roots and icons like Sicco Mansholt. Today, you can still taste that history. In old factories that now sparkle with culture, in sourdough bread from local bakers, and in traditional liqueurs from Groningen soil. Discover the heritage, flavours and resilience of this special region.

Kiekkaaste

Did you know that vogelkijkhut De Kiekkaaste in Nieuwe Statenzijl is the only bird hide in the Netherlands located outside the dykes?

De Kiekkaaste - Unique bird-watching hut outside the dike. At Nieuwe Statenzijl, on the border of the Netherlands and Germany, you will find De Kiekkaaste: the only bird-watching hut in the Netherlands outside the dikes. From this special spot, you look out over the tidal area where fresh and salt water meet - a paradise for birds, seals and other animals. After a short walk along a sometimes muddy path, you will be rewarded with sweeping views over the Dollard, where you can spot hundreds of breeding and migratory birds. Don't forget your binoculars and boots.

Pieter Smitbrug

Did you know that the Pieter Smit Bridge in Oldambt, with its length of 800 metres, is the longest cycle bridge in Europe?

Pieter Smit Bridge - Cycling bridge with a view. The Pieter Smit Bridge connects Blauwestad with Winschoten and, at 800 metres, it is the longest cycling and walking bridge in Europe. The bridge spans water, motorway and nature, and is accessible at three points. Designed by architect Nol Molenaar and built with sustainable timber from Gabon, it is a striking piece of craftsmanship. The bridge was named after former mayor Pieter Smit and opened in 2021.

Tower Winschoten

The city of Groningen has d' Olle Grieze, Winschoten has d' Olle Witte! On top of this freestanding church tower, you have a great view over the city.

A timeless symbol of struggle and history. The free-standing church tower known as ‘d’Olle Witte’, built in the 15th century, marks the spot where the trade route from Groningen to Münster crossed the little river Rensel. For centuries, the tower played a role in the defence of the region. In the Disaster Year of 1672, the troops of ‘Bommen Berend’ (Bernhard van Galen) captured de fort of Winschoten. Shortly afterwards, Karel Rabenhaupt recaptured the town. Cannonballs are still visible in the tower, serving as a reminder of this battle. The tower also provided protection during the Eighty Years’ War, when Sergeant Moda and his men held their ground there against the Spanish. Today, visitors can climb the tower. During the guided tour, the Tower Guards recount the history of the tower and the key figures of 1672. A related exhibition is on display at the Museum Slag bij Heiligerlee .

Oostwold Airport

Did you know that they used to sow the fields with planes?

Since its commissioning in 1960, the character of the airport has changed significantly. Originally, it served exclusively agricultural aviation, based on annual exemptions. In the following decades, use expanded to other forms of light aviation, including sightseeing and paragliding flights. Oostwold Airport is also close to the Blauwestad project, making it a striking element in the landscape of East Groningen: a place where peace, space and mobility come together.

What is the average area of grain cultivation per farm in Oldambt?

a 59 hectares

b 69 hectares

c 79 hectares
Where is the statue of Sicco Mansholt located?

a Hongerige Wolf

b Winschoten

c Blauwestad
Which crops fall under cereals?

a Rye, quinoa and maize

b Pasta, rice and barley

c Quinoa, pasta and oats
When does the annual grain harvest take place?

a July

b August

c September
What can be considered the most important staple foods in the Netherlands?

a Rice & potatoes

b Potatoes & grain

c Grain & rice
What are the overdue beautiful old manor houses also called?

a Pruilende Bruiden

b Laughing Brides

c Crying Brides
There is an airport in Oldambt near Oostwold. Where is the other airport in Groningen

a Vledderveen

b Eelde

c Groningen
How many hectares is the Oldambtmeer?

a 600 hectares

b 700 hectares

c 800 hectares