Wijk bij Duurstede

For the name part Wijk, various explanations are given, such as that it could be derived from the Roman vicus, or the Germanic wik which means "bend" or "inlet". The name part Duurstede can be traced back to the former trading place Dorestad, which name is at least partly of Celtic origin.

During the Roman period, there was a Roman castellum located here on the Rhine, possibly Levefanum. The northern border (limes) of the Roman Empire also ran right through Wijk bij Duurstede.

In the early Middle Ages, one of the most important trading places in Northwestern Europe was located here: Dorestad. Around 850, Dorestad fell due to attacks from the Vikings. Thus, until quite recently, the historiography suggested this. However, it is now seriously considered that natural and (church) political factors, along with shifting power relations, likely played a more significant role. The riverbed of the Rhine may have shifted somewhat, the harbor may also have started to silt up at that time, and additionally, there was a rise in water levels. The decline of Dorestad meant growth for Tiel, Deventer, and later Utrecht.

Many finds have been made in and around Wijk bij Duurstede from these historical periods, which can be seen in Museum Dorestad.

Wijk bij Duurstede received city rights from Gijsbrecht van Abcoude in 1300 and was built on a residential tower constructed in 1270 that would grow into castle Duurstede. Presumably shortly thereafter, in defense of the city, an earthen wall and moat were started, partly using the old riverbeds for the moat. In the mid-14th century, the city was expanded eastward, and presumably during the same period, the city was provided with city walls that included city gates and fortified towers. The city wall and moat were renewed around 1445.

MX-5 Roadster Club NL