The cathedrals of Eems Delta

As you trek past the historic villages, you can see them from afar. The many medieval churches in Eems Delta. Beacons of silence in the landscape. Some stand on mounds and each has its own story. Discover this rich history with a visit to the region. See how the sun shines through the high church windows, take a seat on the old wooden benches or light a candle for a loved one. Religious or not: a special piece of contemplation either way.

Jacobuskerk - Zeerijp

More than a thousand years ago, there was a small tufa church or chapel in Zeerijp. In the 13th century, a hall church was built here; a century later, the present brick church took its shape. Today, the history of the past can still be seen. The style of Jacobuskerk is characterised by the transition from Romanesque to Gothic architecture. Among other things, the high vaults, pointed arched windows and striking ornamental brickwork are nods to this. The interior is unique with a typical Groningen touch: all walls are clad in red brick imitation.

Nicolaïkerk - Appingedam

Appingedam is a historic city by the water. Dozens of centuries-old buildings remind you of this. The Romano-Gothic Nicolaïkerk is one of them. It is likely that a place of worship stood on the spot where the church was built before. The current church has stood on its site since the 13th century. In the first century, the church was still dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Due to the rapid expansion of Appingedam, the church was expanded a century later. Nicholas of Myra then became its patron saint. Some murals of St Nicholas can still be found on the walls of the building, which are dated to the mid-15th century.

Kerk Marsum - Marsum

The characteristic Groninger bricks can be found all over the province, including in Eems Delta. The little church in Marsum, for example, was also built with them. It lies high on the remains of a mound. It is also one of the few remains after the siege of Delfzijl in the French era. Built in the 12th century, it is one of the oldest churches in the province. And it still stands proudly. Talk about history.

Sebastiaankerk - Bierum

The 13th-century Sebastiaankerk catches the eye with its huge buttress in front of the tower. Can't miss it. Together with the western part of the church, the tower forms a 'reduced westwork'. In other words, the tower is built into the church. The name of this beautiful church comes from St Sebastian, a Roman officer who died for his faith. A painting of him can be found in the second vault. Also, after restorations, paintings of Christ, Catherine, Sebastian and Mary have also reappeared.

Andreaskerk - Westeremden

The history of Andreaskerk dates back to the 12th century. The present church is the remnant of an originally late Romanesque cruciform church, and its simple but valuable furnishings form a harmonious unit. The pulpit, the choir screen and the church wardens' bench date back to the ^mid-17th century. The unique, neo-Gothic organ dates back to 1874 and was built by Petrus van Oeckelen. According to the stories, a murder was once committed in this church about six hundred years ago. But fortunately you don't notice any of that now. You only hear the silence.

Cycling route

Countless magnificent churches can be admired in this beautiful area. Magical places they are, places of contemplation. Oases of peace and, best of all, you can usually walk right into them. A fun way to admire some of these churches is by following this cycle route. Often the door is already open or you can borrow a key from the neighbour.

The rich landscape of Eems Delta has (many) more churches in store for you. All equally different, all equally special. So you are also welcome at the churches below.