Kamp Wyldemerk, Former military camp in De Fryske Marren, Netherlands.
Kamp Wyldemerk is a former military camp located in De Fryske Marren, stretching along Wyldemerkwei between the towns of Balk and Rijs. The site features multiple barrack structures positioned adjacent to the Wyldemerk nature reserve.
The Dutch Labor Service established this camp in 1942 during World War II as part of military operations. After the war, it served to house evacuees from Limburg and people detained for political reasons.
In 1956, this place became home to the first mosque with a minaret built in the Netherlands, serving the Islamic community of Moluccan residents. The structure allowed people to practice their faith in a way that was previously unavailable in the country.
The site is accessible to visitors, with the former barracks now serving as residential spaces while the adjacent nature reserve offers opportunities for exploration. Walking around the area provides a clear sense of its layout and historical importance.
A bronze memorial featuring clove designs created by artist Hein Mader stands at the former camp location to honor its Moluccan inhabitants. This artwork subtly connects the place to the spices that were historically significant to the Moluccan islands.
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