Geophysical survey at Tomakker cemetery - looking for traces of the past
On Wednesday 11 and Thursday 12 June 2025, a special survey will take place at the cemetery on the Tomakker in Nuenen. You may see people with measuring equipment walking around in and around the grounds on those days. Don't worry: no digging will take place and all trees and shrubs will remain standing. This is a so-called geophysical survey, which allows us to look carefully under the ground. The survey is being conducted by Heijmans Infra BV.
Why a geophysical survey?
The cemetery on the Tomakker dates back as far as the Middle Ages. With this research, we hope to discover whether the site used to be larger than the current fenced-in area. This could mean that there are also graves outside the fence. We may also come across other interesting historical remains that tell something about how the area used to look.
What is geophysical research?
Geophysical research is a way of using equipment to discover what is hidden underground without opening up the ground. For example, small signals are sent into the ground (such as radio waves or currents), and the equipment measures how they are returned. This creates a kind ofMap of the Underground.
What can you find with a geophysical survey?
With this type of research you can, among other things:
- Detecting ancient graves or grave structures;
- Foundations of earlier buildings, such as a chapel or wall;
- Traces of ancient paths or roads;
- Or, for example, changes in soil structure that indicate past human use.
No nuisance
The survey is completely superficial: that is, there is no digging, no sawing, and nothing is removed. You will probably hardly notice that the survey is taking place. The work will not cause any nuisance or damage to residents, visitors or nature.
Learn more
This study is being conducted on behalf of the municipality in cooperation with a specialized research firm.
Do you have any questions? Please feel free to contact the municipality at the email address erfgoed@nuenen.nl. You can also call Ms. Stolk at 06-42306852.
We will keep you informed of the results as soon as they are known.