When you approach the Vieland island you already see the 40 meter high "vuurboetsduin" with the lighthouse build on top. This lighthouse is relatively new to the island.

In former days (early 14th century) they lit a big fire on the highest dune as a navigation aid. The was wood was kept dry in a barn, also called boet in Dutch. Hence the name vuurboetsduin (vuur = fire, boet = barn, duin = dune). In 1836 the open fire was replaced by a round 9 meter tall tower. It carried oil lamps equipped with reflectors known as Argand lamps, called after the Swiss psysicist Aimé Argand.

In 1909 the stone tower was torn down to make room for the "new" 18 meter cast iron tower. The upper portion of the IJmuiden Front Light (1879)was moved to Vlieland. This massive operation was completed by the Penn & Bauduin foundry. Weight 50,000 kg.

A watchtower was attached to the lighthouse 1912. The view from this watchtower is spectacular. In 1920 the light was electrified. In 1944 the lighthouse was attacked by a British plane and suffered minor damage. The lighthouse is open to the public so check with the local tourist office (VVV) on Vlieland if you ever get to visit the island.

ARLHS Number: NET 028
Admirality Number: B 0894
Build: 1909
Construction: cast iron
Height: 18 m