The village was first mentioned in early-11th century as Holeuurt, and means "hollow
terp". Holwert developed as a
terp (artificial living mound) village several centuries
before Christ in a radial shape. The original
terp was designated for the church, and in the 8th or 9th century, a long stretched out
terp was created for trade and residential houses. In the 11th or 12th century, a
dike was built along the
Wadden Sea coast, however Holwert remained outside the dike until 1580. The tower of the Dutch Reformed church dates from the 13th century. The spire has probably been added in 1661. In 1776, the old church was demolished, and an L-shaped church was built in its place. In 1872, a dam was privately constructed from Holwert to the island of
Ameland across the Wadden Sea, and on 9 June, it was possible to walk to Ameland. The dam required a lot of maintenance. In October 1881, a storm created a hole in the dike, and two more holes were created in April 1882. In 1888, an investment of
ƒ 1.2 million was needed to strengthen and repair the dam, and a loan was asked from the government, however the
Dutch parliament voted against the proposal. A part of the dam still exists. The ferry to Ameland leaves on the end of the remaining dam. Holwert is one of the starting points for
wadlopen (
mudflat hiking). At
low tide, it is possible to walk to the island of
Ameland. Mudflat hiking is potentially dangerous, and is only allowed under the supervision of a licensed guide. The village's official name was changed from Holwerd to Holwert in 2023. ==Transportation==