Medemblik, the oldest town (founded in the 10th century) in what used to be West Friesland, lies on the IJsselmeer some 20km/12.5mi south of the Afsluitdijk. It received its municipal charter in 1289 and flourished particularly in the 16th and 17th centuries. Until the construction of the North Holland Canal in the 19th
century it was an important port, with access to the North Sea. It now has only a yacht harbor (cruises on the IJsselmeer). Visitors can enjoy a nostalgic ride on an old steam train between Medemblik and Hoorn.