The relationship between Amelanders and the sea has always been rather stormy. People have been living on the island since the 8th century. But it was far from a safe existence. The sea crashed in, sweeping away large portions of land and entire villages. Around 1800 there were only about three villages still remaining. The islanders connected these vilages with a dike and land began to form again on the south side of the island. This in turn created the polders, the very first thing you’ll see as your boat arrives.
