Overijssel Maps

Overijssel is a province located in the eastern Netherlands, bordered by Germany to the east, Gelderland to the south, Flevoland to the west, Friesland and Drenthe to the north. The province covers an area of 1,321 square miles (3,421 square kilometers) and has a population of approximately 1.18 million inhabitants as of 2022.

The provincial capital is Zwolle, while other major cities include Enschede, Deventer, Hengelo, and Almelo. Enschede serves as the largest city in the province and functions as a significant economic center, particularly in the technology and innovation sectors.

The economy of Overijssel relies heavily on manufacturing, technology, and agriculture. The region known as Twente, in the eastern part of the province, maintains a strong industrial heritage and hosts numerous high-tech companies. The University of Twente in Enschede contributes significantly to the province's technological development and research capabilities.

The province features diverse landscapes, including the IJssel River valley, extensive agricultural areas, and nature reserves. The Weerribben-Wieden National Park, the largest fen wetland in northwestern Europe, attracts nature enthusiasts and provides opportunities for boating, cycling, and hiking. Historic Hanseatic cities along the IJssel River, including Deventer, Zwolle, and Kampen, showcase well-preserved medieval architecture and attract history buffs.

Notable tourist attractions include the medieval city centers of Deventer and Zwolle, the historic estates of Twente, and the picturesque village of Giethoorn, famous for its canals and absence of roads. The province maintains an extensive network of cycling paths, connecting urban areas with rural landscapes and natural reserves.

The Facts:
Capital: Zwolle.
Area: 1,321 sq mi (3,421 sq km).
Population: ~ 1,184,551 (2022).
Largest cities: Enschede, Zwolle, Deventer, Hengelo, Almelo, Hardenberg, Kampen, Steenwijkerland, Rijssen-Holten, Raalte, Hellendoorn, Hof van Twente.