Menno van Coehoorn Village

Wyckel and Menno van Coehoorn are often uttered in the same breath. Around 1860, the internationally-renowned fortress-builder and general had a twelve-hectare park, now known as the Menno van Coehoornbos, built around his castle Meerenstein on the outskirts of the village.

The nature organisation It Fryske Gea purchased the forest landscaped in French style in 1949 due to its botanical, historical and recreational value. Unusual “stinsplanten” (flora around former fortifications and old farms) may be found in the area. The eastern forest border affords a beautiful view of the estate and the Slotermeer.

Demolished around 1811, nothing remains of the noble country house Meerenstein. The open section of the forest now serves as an ice-skating rink and sports field.

Van Coehoorn’s mausoleum is located in the tomb of the monumental Reformed Church. The high, massive tower of the no less solid church has a heavy gabled roof, making Wyckel visible for miles around since 1400.