Marken, the Netherlands – formerly isolated island

The village of Marken was separated from the Holland mainland by a storm surge in the 13th century.  They remained isolated as a community living on an island in the Zuiderzee from the progress the mainland was making for many centuries.  In 1957 it was reconnected to the mainland by a dyke.

Marken, Netherlands – where time stood still.

The inhabitants to this day lead a simple somewhat primitive life.  They are strictly Protestant and tend to inter-marry.  Many still wear traditional dress.