Barraconvent of Saint Nicholas Monastery in Bergum (stamp post)

The monastery of Bergum was founded in the 13th century, originating from the monastery Ludingakerk near Harlingen. It was part of the Order of the Canons Regular of St. Augustine, a religious order that took charge of leading church services and monasteries and provided education at the monastery schools.

In 1503, the monastery owned a significant amount of land, approximately 900 pounds of land (about 660 football fields) scattered across various parishes. Additionally, the monastery had outlying farms, including a convent farm near Lytsegeast, in Tietjerk. However, this was not a large estate and was rented out.

In 1482, a short dike was constructed to protect the low-lying lands around the Bergumermeer. The monastery was active in peat extraction in the Bergumerveen and in diking the Bergumermeer, which occurred in 1482. They had the right to fish in the surrounding waters and operated a lime kiln to produce shell lime, an important raw material for mortar.

In 1498, a fire broke out in the monastery caused by Saxon soldiers. This fire led to the destruction of part of the monastery complex.

In 1581, the provincial states decided to set fire to the monasteries of Bergum, Smalle Ee, and Siegerswoude (near Garijp). The goal was to prevent these monasteries from becoming a stronghold for wandering (Spanish) enemies.

What remains of the monastery is the Monastery Church, which is now used as the Dutch Reformed Cross Church. The cemetery behind it is located on the site of the monastery.

Location of the stamp post

The stamp post is located at the outdoor terrace of museum Burgum, Menno van Koehoornweg 9, Burgum.

Monnikentocht