Oostum

Oostum is a small village in the municipality of Het Hogeland in the province of Groningen, Netherlands. It is known for its artificial dwelling hill (terp or wierde), which is a protected archaeological monument. The village is located approximately 15 kilometers north of the city of Groningen.

Historically, Oostum, like many villages in the coastal areas of Groningen, was built on a terp to provide protection against flooding from the sea and rivers. The Oostum terp is one of the oldest and best-preserved terps in the region. Archaeological excavations have revealed evidence of habitation dating back to pre-Roman times.

The village itself is relatively small, consisting mainly of farms and houses clustered around the church. The church of Oostum, situated on the highest point of the terp, is a notable landmark. It is a Romanesque-Gothic church, parts of which date back to the 13th century. The church and the terp are significant cultural heritage sites, drawing visitors interested in the history and archaeology of the region.

The population of Oostum is small, and the village retains a rural character. While agriculture has traditionally been the main economic activity, tourism related to the terp and the church also contributes to the local economy. The village is accessible by road and bicycle paths, making it a popular destination for cyclists exploring the Groninger landscape.