Palendorp Petten Waterfront | Netherlands Photo Spot

The Palendorp Petten, or ‘ghost village’, is a compelling historical landmark situated in Petten, a coastal village in the Netherlands. Consisting of 160 wooden poles arranged in the layout of the original village, the Palendorp serves as a poignant reminder of the 15th-century village that was swallowed by the sea due to a series of devastating storm surges. The stark, geometric arrangement of the poles against the wide, flat beach and the backdrop of the North Sea provides a unique, minimalist setting for photographers. As well the unique erosion of the sand along the waters edge makes for compelling abstract landscapes. The location is particularly compelling at sunrise and sunset, when the changing light casts long shadows and illuminates the poles in warm tones. Additionally, the site’s historical significance adds a layer of depth to the images captured here. The Palendorp Petten is not just a photographic location, but a destination that tells the story of the Netherlands’ enduring struggle and symbiotic relationship with the sea.

(Petten, North Holland, Netherlands)