The 13th-century Mariakerk in Bears has a richly preserved interior. Much of the 18th-century furniture has remained intact, including the carved wooden pulpit from 1759.
The small village of Bears, south of Leeuwarden, feels like a scene from a picture book. A narrow road leads you past a few farms and houses to a large church on a terp. Nearby you will find Uniastate, now represented by a striking steel frame, together with the original gatehouse. These three structures form a beautiful ensemble.
The steel outline of the former state was created by visual artist Beb Mulder. This “mirage” of the old estate can be seen from afar. You can climb the stairs inside the structure for a view of the church and the surrounding landscape.
The church is owned by Stichting Alde Fryske Tsjerken and managed by the local Stichting Poarte en Uniastate Bears.
