Statue of "Grutte Pier"

Statue of "Grote Pier" in his birthplace Kimswerd, by sculptor Anne Woudwijk

Grutte Pier, born as Pier Gerlofs Donia, was an iconic Frisian warlord and freedom fighter who fought for the independence of Friesland in the 16th century.

Life and Background

Grutte Pier was born around 1480 in Kimswerd, Friesland. He was the son of a farmer and initially led a quiet life. However, his life took a dramatic turn in 1515 when his farm was destroyed by Saxon mercenaries, leading to the death of his wife and other family members. This tragic incident drove him to stand up against the domination of Friesland by foreign powers, particularly George of Saxony and the Count of Holland.

He waged guerrilla warfare and plundered enemy ships and towns. A famous saying he used to determine if someone was a true Frisian was: "Bûter, brea en griene tsiis, wa’t dat net sizze kin, is gjin oprjochte Fries".