It was a grey and cold winter’s day, when I visited Ilpendam. As the name suggests, it is near a dam on the river Ilp. It is a very small village covering about 2 square kilometers and has less than 2000 inhabitants. As there was no rain, the weather was pleasant and therefore a nice opportunity to go for a walk.
The village was very peaceful. There was no-one to be seen upon entering the square. The first building that stood out on the village square was the Dutch Reformed Church.
It was built in 1656 but there was a chapel on the site since the 1400’s. It was destroyed during the Spanish 80 years war. The church was closed, so I wandered over to the cemetery next door.
It was a bit spooky with the dark clouds looming overhead, therefore I decided to continue walking. Returning to the square, one passes the Village House (Dorphuis).
It is a more modern building and not so special to look at. However, from the numerous social and cultural activities (christenings, plays, repasses, weddings etc.) that occur there - it's probably one of the most important buildings in the village. Adjacent to it is Cafe Biljart, I saw 2 people sitting outside - a sign of life!
Directly across was a mini-supermarket or village shop.
I stepped inside to buy a bottle of water and was happy to see a few people waiting to be served. It did not seem appropriate to take photos. The shop had a bit of everything in there - it was a bakery, supermarket and even the post office.
Now it was time to venture further to discover the buildings lining the main street.
It was mostly homes not businesses.
They were quaint and charming.
A few different types were also apparent.
Although a small village, less than 150 m from the reformed church is a roman catholic church, St. Sebastian church.
It towers over the village street and has (a statue of) St. Sebastian standing at the entrance of the church dedicated to him.
The sun came out momentarily and brightened up the saint. I noticed the "OPEN" sign
and decided to seize the chance to enter the building.
The church was built in 1870 in a neo-romanesque style. It had beautiful stained glass windows by the altar.
There were a few parishioners quietly having a meeting. They inquired about my visit and offered me a cup of coffee. I kindly declined and left them to their business. However, I lit a candle and made a small donation before departing.
Upon leaving the church, I could not help but notice that the sun had disappeared again, behind the clouds. Did I experience an auspicious moment before entering the church?
Shortly thereafter, I arrived at the end of town as now there were no more homes and I was looking out to the river and fields.
I retraced some steps and took a side street leading away from the main road. There were larger farm houses and boats on a canal which led to the river Ilp.
The only sign of life I saw outside, was this old lady tending her garden. She smiled when I got closer. I hoped she did not stay out for too long as it was below zero celsius.
I also spotted this public bookcase where one can take, swap or just leave books. I have only seen this concept in Europe.
Although it was Saturday at noon, there was still not much life in this quiet village centre. Nevertheless, I was totally charmed whilst perusing Ilpendam. The dutch are known for keeping their curtains open - so I got a sneak peak inside a few homes.
Here we have a cactus lover
and a lover of hanging plants.
I was most fascinated by the variety of doors of the village houses.
They were mostly narrow
but detailed
and stylish.
Some were modern,
classic,
or robust.
Others were simple,
panelled with glass
and wood,
lead
or iron.
These doors and entrances highlight a sample of dutch architecture and style.
There was not a lot more to see in the old centre of Ilpendam; however I enjoyed my walk around this pleasant little village.
All photos taken with an iPhone and are my own