Nederland - Sint Anna ter Muiden

Sint Anna ter Muiden is the westernmost town of the Netherlands, located about 1 km west of Sluis (province of Zeeland), almost on the border with Belgium. Nowadays it has a population of about 50 people and therefore it is the second smallest city in the country.

Orginally known as ‘Ter Muiden’ or ‘Mude’, named after ‘at the mouth’ (mude) of the river Zwin (‘Sint Anna’ was added in the 17th century to differentiate it from another ‘Muiden’ in the Netherlands). Before the ascent of Sluis, Mude was the main harbour of Bruges. The city came to existence around 1200 and it was granted city rights in 1242 by the counts of Flanders and became member of the Flemish Hansa.

Silting of the river Zwin left ‘Mude’ landlocked and all went downhill in ‘Sint Anna ter Muiden’. Early 15th century the city was plundered by English soldiers, who only spared the church.

The impressive church tower is the only remaining witness of the turbulent history of Muyden. This tower dates back to the 14th century and even survived the 80-years war between Spain and the Northern Netherlands. Most houses and the city hall along the picturesque market square are built in the 17th century. The square has a large city pump, which dates back to 1789 and is in Louis XIV-style, displaying the coat of arms of Sint Anna ter Muiden, containing a striking anchor, recalling the former maritime links of the city.