Urk - Harbor

The construction of the Afsluitdijk between the Waddenzee and the IJsselmeer in 1932 reduced the previously busy shipping traffic in the harbor; but the town has nevertheless contrived to preserve its traditional character. Every Friday ships which have been plying in the IJsselmeer and the North Sea return to port; and the superstition that the men must not board their ships again before midnight on Sunday is still observed. The fish auction is also still carried on.