Greetsiel, Port village in Krummhörn, Germany
Greetsiel is a fishing village on the northern shore of Leybucht bay within Krummhörn municipality in northwestern Lower Saxony. The settlement extends along both sides of a narrow harbour basin that connects to the open bay through a channel cut through the dike.
The settlement was first documented in 1388 when it served as a harbour for merchant ships from Hamburg. In the 16th century, the port lost its regional importance when local chieftains surrendered their power to East Frisian princes.
The harbour remains in use by a small shrimp fishing fleet whose red boats moor along the quay wall. Visitors can watch fishermen landing their catch and buy fresh North Sea shrimp directly at the waterfront.
The nearest rail connection is in Emden about 15 kilometers (9 miles) to the south, from where regular bus services run to the village. The center can be easily explored on foot, with parking available on the outskirts.
The twin mills at the village entrance date from 1706 and 1856 and still turn their sails when wind conditions allow. A third mill stands somewhat apart in the fields east of the settlement.
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