About This Spring
## Overview This ancient well was once a site where the fertility goddess Fostare was venerated. Today the well is locked and known as the Willibrordusput (Well of Willibrord), named after the Anglo-Saxon missionary Saint Willibrord, who was instrumental in spreading Christianity across the Low Countries in the early 8th century. **Please note: This spring is currently CLOSED and not accessible to visitors.** The renaming from a pagan fertility shrine to a Christian saint's well reflects a pattern seen across Europe, where early missionaries often Christianized existing sacred water sites rather than abandoning them. The well is located in the North Holland region of the Netherlands near Heiloo — a town whose name itself is thought to derive from "heilige loo" (holy grove), hinting at the area's deep spiritual roots. While the well remains locked, the surrounding area may still be worth a visit for those interested in the layered history of sacred springs in the Netherlands.
Getting There
Address
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GPS Coordinates
52.605088, 4.712518
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Quick Facts
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Tips
Bring empty jugs or bottles to fill up.
Use GPS coordinates for the most accurate directions.
Safety Info
Always test or filter water from natural springs before drinking. Water quality can change seasonally.
Bring your own containers. A portable water filter like a LifeStraw is recommended.
Respect the environment. Pack out everything you bring in.