Willibrordusput, Medieval well site near White Church in Heiloo, Netherlands.
The Willibrordusput is a medieval well structure beside the oldest church in Kennemerland, consisting of a brick enclosure with a collar, pulley system, fixed cover, and wooden roof. Its construction shows the craftsmanship typical of well structures from that period.
Saint Willibrord founded the first parish church beside this spring around 720, and after his death in 739, veneration at this site began among local communities. This connection between the saint and the well made it a destination for the faithful for centuries.
Pilgrims came to this well seeking water they believed could heal illnesses and fevers, making it a place of spiritual hope and devotion. The site reflects how deeply local people connected healing and faith in medieval times.
The well underwent restoration in 2010 but has remained sealed since 1950 to prevent contamination and is no longer accessible for water use. Visitors should note this is an outdoor historical site, so it is best to explore the area and view the structure from the outside.
Archaeological research revealed the well sits at the same ground level as the oldest graveyard connected to an eighth-century wooden church structure. This suggests the site held sacred significance from the very beginning of the Christian settlement.
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