De Stenen Vrouw

At the foot of the imposing Westerzeedijk in Harlingen, where the land gently meets the sea, stands a remarkable work of art: De Stenen Vrouw, also known as the Reclining Woman. This sculpture, symbolising peace and strength, invites you to pause for a moment and connect with the Frisian landscape.

The old sea wall
Made from robust basalt stones, the sculpture was designed in 1965 by Zwolle-based artist Ybe van der Wielen. Originally, the sculpture was not visible as it is today. It formed a hidden part of the old sea wall that protected Harlingen from the water. The wall itself was built in response to the severe floods of the 1950s, highlighting Harlingen’s strong connection with the sea.

A monument with a new life

In 2010, De Stenen Vrouw was given a new lease of life. When the old sea wall was replaced by a more modern flood defence, the sculpture was carefully removed. Freed from its original function as part of the wall, it now rests on a pedestal in full view — a monument to the enduring relationship between people and water.

An eternal bond with the sea
As you walk past her, you can sense her quiet presence. Her gently curved lines seem to echo the shapes of the surrounding landscape, as if she has always belonged here. De Stenen Vrouw tells her story not with words, but with stone — a story of protection, resilience and an unbreakable bond with the sea. She still stands guard: quiet, strong and forever part of Harlingen.