Uniastate en Tsjerke Bears

On the grounds of the Cultuur-Historisch Centrum Uniastate (cultural-historical centre), there is a 13th century church with an ornate interior and a beautiful wood-carved pulpit. The documentation center about villas and stone houses (Staten and Stinsen) is located on the floor of the church. On the site is a unique steel mirage of the old Uniastate anno 1756. From the watchtower you have a beautiful view over the wide Frisian meadow landscape. An old state gate with an exhibition in the monumental upper room about all existing gates in Friesland. There is a cultural playground for the children on the grounds with "old" furniture from the state. In the summer months you will find changing exhibitions in the church or on the grounds.

Uniastate Bears - Mirage of the Past.

A prominent family, the Unias, once lived in the humble village of Bears. After the demolition of their State (country estate) in 1756, the site has been abandoned for centuries. Only the Poarte is still a meager witness of the rich past of this location. Until around 1990 an initiative was launched to revive the state. Where the stone walls once stood, a steel replica, designed by artist Bep Mulder, is rising like a mirage of the past. The tower offers a beautiful view over the landscape. Whoever enters the redesigned stinsen (estates) site via the solemn yet original Poarte, feels like a visitor in another time.

In Tsjerke Bears (church of Bears), you will find the visitor centre of three unique cultural-historical experiences: Tsjerke Bears, the Poarte and Uniastate Bears, which are very worth visiting, as well as the unique children's playground with play equipment in the form of "old" furniture from the state.

The foundation regularly organizes events, exhibitions and performances. In addition, Uniastate is a very special wedding location.

Business hours:

Open from April 1 to September 30. Groups by appointment please. Open daily from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Closed Mondays.