Friesland

Maritime province on the northeast side of the IJsselmeer, north Netherlands, which includes the Frisian Islands and land reclaimed from the former Zuider Zee; area 3,400 sq km/1,313 sq mi; population (1997) 615,000 (the inhabitants of the province are called Frisians). The capital is Leeuwarden; other main towns are Drachten, Harlingen, Sneek, and Heerenveen. Small boats are made; agriculture centres on livestock (Friesian cattle, which originated here, and black Friesian horses), dairy products, and arable farming.

Ruled as a county of the Holy Roman Empire during the Middle Ages, Friesland passed to Saxony in 1498 and, after a revolt, to Charles V of Spain. In 1579 it subscribed to the Treaty of Utrecht, opposing Spanish rule. In 1748 its stadholder, Prince William IV of Orange, became stadholder of all the United Provinces of the Netherlands

Physical The area is flat and lies below sea level; the coasts are protected by dykes; there are several lakes and an extensive canal system.

Features Sailing is popular; the Elfstedentocht (a skating race that takes place on canals through 11 towns, established in 1909) is held during very cold winters.