Friesland Maps

Friesland (also known as Fryslân in West Frisian) constitutes one of the twelve provinces of the Netherlands, located in the country's northern region. The province borders Groningen to the east, Drenthe to the southeast, Flevoland across the IJsselmeer to the south, and North Holland to the southwest. The North Sea forms its northern boundary, including the West Frisian Islands.

The province encompasses an area of 2,221 square miles (5,753 square kilometers), including water bodies. As of 2022, Friesland has a population of approximately 660,000 inhabitants. Leeuwarden serves as the provincial capital and largest city, with about 124,000 residents.

The economy of Friesland centers primarily on agriculture, particularly dairy farming and cattle breeding. The province produces significant quantities of milk products and is home to several major dairy companies. Other important sectors include maritime industries, water technology, recreation, and tourism. The presence of multiple lakes and waterways has established Friesland as a prominent location for water sports and sailing.

Notable cities include Sneek, Heerenveen, and Drachten. The province contains numerous historical sites and attractions, including the Frisian Lakes, the West Frisian Islands (particularly Terschelling and Ameland), and traditional windmills. The Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage site, borders the province's northern coast. The region features characteristic terp villages, built on artificial dwelling mounds that predate modern flood control systems.

Friesland maintains its own distinct language, West Frisian, which holds official status alongside Dutch. The province contains over 6,000 registered monuments, including churches, stately homes, and historic city centers, making it a significant destination for architectural tourism.

The Facts:
Capital: Leeuwarden.
Area: 2,221 sq mi (5,753 sq km).
Population: ~ 659,612 (2022).
Largest cities: Leeuwarden, Drachten, Sneek, Heerenveen.