In the center of the village Jorwert stands the Romanesque Radboudkerk or Redbadtsjerke, as we say in Frisian. The stone church dates back to the eleventh century, and there likely was a wooden church before it.
The church features a beautiful saddle-roof tower with two old church bells, and inside the spacious church, you'll find a modest interior that suits the Redbadsjerke well.
The former Roman Catholic parish chose Saint Radboud (Bishop of Utrecht 899 - 917) as its patron saint. Bishop Radboud was descended from the famous Frisian king Redbad on his mother's side. The church in Jorwert is, by the way, the only church in Friesland dedicated to this saint.
The church is managed by a Local Committee and is owned by the Foundation Alde Fryske Tsjerken.
The Redbadtjerke is a protected national monument, still used for Protestant church services, wedding and funeral ceremonies. The church is also opened as much as possible for cultural events, tourists wanting to visit the building, and pilgrims who may wish to stay here.
REFUGIO What's unique is that pilgrims can stay in this church in a simple manner. This church is located on both the Odulphuspad and the Jabikspaad. People walking one of these pilgrimage paths can spend the night here for €15 per person. You can use this refugio if you:
- have a pilgrim's passport from the Dutch Society of Saint Jacob
- have a route booklet or stamp card from the Odulphuspad or the Jabikspaad (or one of the other Frisian pilgrimage routes)
- are a donor of the Foundation Alde Fryske Tsjerken
It is necessary to inquire about availability by phone beforehand!
More information about the house rules can be found on the website of Santiago aan het Wad.
