Critzum Warften/Deich - The Golden Ring

But in the long run these villages were not able to withstand the often heavy storm tides. Around the year 1000, people began to build dikes to protect themselves more effectively from the water. At first these were only rather flat and weak earthen embankments, but from the 13th century onwards the land was surrounded by a continuous line of dikes - called "The Golden Ring". Tolkien's fantasy novel was not the inspiration for the name. The term rather expresses the high costs involved in building the dyke. 

Unfortunatly even this bulwark did not provide lasting protection. The Rheiderland was hit by major flood disasters, such as the Cosmas and Damian flood of 1509. Over the centuries, the golden ring was constantly expanded and strengthened through technology, knowledge and foresight. In addition, the Ems flood barrier - barrage between Nendorp and Gandersum was built in 2002 to provide additional flood protection. 

Today, the Rheider Deichacht looks after a dike line of almost 50 kilometres long. It protects the lives and livelihoods of more than 26,000 people who live here. The height of the dike is up to 8.50 metres above sea level (near Pogum). Todays climate change brings new challenges and makes further future adjustments necessary. Because an old saying is just as valid yesterday and today as it will be tomorrow: no dike, no land, no life.