The Brandaris. This impressive building dates from 1594, the year in which Willem Barentz started his first voyage. Islanders usually call it the "toer" (tower). The Brandaris is the country's oldest, still operational lighthouse. The first firehouse on Terschelling dates from 1323. It is the predecessor of the Brandaris, which took its current form in 1594. Its name is often associated with the verb to burn because a real fire used to burn on the plateau as a beacon, but it is generally assumed that it comes from the Irish abbot Brendan. This sea traveler is venerated in many churches around the Baltic Sea and the coast of Flanders and Brittany and is often depicted as a saint with a burning torch. The Brandaris is manned day and night and serves as the sea traffic center for the entire Wadden area. Nowadays, the tower guard keeps an eye on everything with a lot of digital material, but it is still nice that the best man or woman can also look outside. Many a drifting surfer is grateful to them after a rescue! Although this historic building is not accessible to the public, it has served as a special wedding location in recent years. The unique decor of the tower makes it extra special. At the moment, the Brandaris is not available as a wedding location due to renovations.