Terschelling (Dutch pronunciation: [tɛrˈsxɛlɪŋ] (listen); West Frisian: Skylge; Terschelling dialect: Schylge) is a municipality and an island in the northern Netherlands, one of the West Frisian Islands. It is situated between the islands of Vlieland and Ameland.
Where is West Terschelling located?
Location in the Netherlands. West-Terschelling (West Frisian: West-Skylge) is the largest village on Terschelling in the province Friesland, the Netherlands. It had a population of around 2,602 in January 2017.
Why did the English attack the Dutch at Terschelling?
The English fleet had originally planned to attack the Dutch merchant fleet which was moored before the coast of Vlieland, the next island to the west. When the Dutch vessels retreated towards Terschelling, the English followed, destroyed 150 Dutch vessels, and landed in the harbour of West-Terschelling.
What languages are spoken on the island of Terschelling?
On the island of Terschelling both Dutch, the national language of the Netherlands, and Frisian are spoken. Historically, Frisian dialects have dominated on the western and eastern sides of the island while a Dutch dialect called Midslands has been the main language of Midsland and the surrounding area at the center of the island.
What is the oldest settlement in Terschelling?
The oldest traces of civilisation on Terschelling date from around 850, when a small wooden church was built on a hill near Seerip or Strip. This hill was later used as a burial ground and is known as the “Striperkerkhof”.
What is the main source of income on Terschelling?
The main source of income on Terschelling is tourism. There is some agriculture, but a large part of the island has become a nature reserve. Terschelling is well known for the yearly Oerol Festival during which theatre performances are played throughout the island, making use of its landscape and nature.
