Ie is the shortest place name in the Netherlands and an ancient terp village with a rich history and remarkable cultural heritage.
Protected village landscape
The name Ie means water and refers to the time when the village was accessible by waterways. The origins of the village date back to before the year 900. At the heart of the village stands the 13th-century Tsjerke op ’e Terp. The historic village centre surrounding the church has been designated as a protected village landscape because of its characteristic buildings and original terp structure.
Walk around the church
Around the church runs the Omgong, a historic footpath that once played an important role in funeral traditions. After the church service, the deceased was traditionally carried around the church before the burial took place. Today, the Omgong serves as a reminder of this centuries-old tradition. Agriculture still plays an important role, while new entrepreneurs also contribute to the vitality of the village.
Unique flax museum
A special attraction is the flax museum Het Braakhok, where visitors can discover the traditional processing of flax, once an important agricultural product used for the production of linen and linseed oil. This heritage has earned Ie the nickname It Flaaksdoarp (“the flax village”), a name that is still visible throughout the village.
