Hemelum: Churches, Monastery History and Gaasterland

Two interests are central to a trip to Hemelum: sacred history and the hilly landscape of Gaasterland. Churches and monastic traditions give the village a cultural and historical dimension, while its location between the lake and the forests adds a scenic perspective.

Church Architecture and Monastic History

Hemelum’s Dutch Reformed church was built in 1668 on the foundations of the old monastery church. During renovations to the Nicolaaskerk in Hemelum in 2016, remnants of the old monastery chapel came to light.

There was a Benedictine nunnery in Hemelum, one of the first monasteries in Friesland. The Benedictine monastery of Sint Nicolaasklooster in Hemelum was probably founded in the late 12th century. The historic Benedictine nunnery is part of Hemelum’s monastic history; the Russian Orthodox monastery represents a different religious tradition.

The Morra, Hills and Forests

Hemelum lies in the hilly landscape of Gaasterland. To the north, the village borders the Morra, one of the oldest lakes in Friesland; on its southern side, Hemelum looks out towards the forests of Gaasterland. The village’s setting can therefore be understood by direction: the lake to the north, the forests to the south, and the hilly landscape as the shared backdrop. If you are choosing a destination with a particular interest in water or forests, you can use these two sides to get a sense of Hemelum’s location.

An Orthodox Monastery in Hemelum

Another religious landmark is the Russian Orthodox Monastery of Saint Nicholas, Bishop of Myra and Wonderworker, located in Hemelum. From the road, it can be recognized by its distinctive Orthodox dome topped with a cross. Its architecture provides a visible landmark, while its dedication identifies the monastery’s religious association.

An Akathist in honour of Saint Nicholas is celebrated at Klooster Hemelum on Thursday evenings at 6 pm. If this service is important to your plans, check the schedule again before travelling, as service times can change.

Sailing Lessons as Another Travel Interest

For those interested in sailing, Zeilschool De Morra is also associated with a specific body of water. The old dairy building of the sailing school is 300 metres from a quiet, shallow lake that is very suitable for sailing lessons. If you are interested, check in advance whether a suitable date can be arranged.

Circular Walk and Archaeological Finds

The Kuiertocht Hemelum is listed as an 8.6-kilometre circular walk that starts at walking junction 62 in the village. A partially paved sandy path leads towards Rijs; according to the route description, the monks of the medieval monastery used this path. The circular route then passes through the hamlet of Galamadammen, follows the reed beds of the Fûgelhoeke and the Morra, and returns to Hemelum. The circular route is marked; check current path conditions before setting out. In 2017, archaeologists surveyed the site south of the Nicolaaskerk in connection with the construction of the Hemelum bypass. Numerous remains of the monastery grounds were found, and volunteers assisted with the excavation.

For the broader travel overview: Nijefurd.