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Drechterland
Town centre of Schellinkhout
Town centre of Schellinkhout
Flag of Drechterland
Flag
Coat of arms of Drechterland
Coat of arms
Highlighted position of Drechterland in a municipal map of North Holland
Location in North Holland
Country Netherlands
Province North Holland
Established 1 January 1979
Government
 • Body Municipal council
Area
 • Total 80.74 km2 (31.17 sq mi)
 • Land 59.10 km2 (22.82 sq mi)
 • Water 21.64 km2 (8.36 sq mi)
Elevation
−1 m (−3.3 ft)
Population
 (May 2014)
 • Total 19,278
 • Density 326/km2 (840/sq mi)
Time zone UTC+1 (CET)
 • Summer (DST) UTC+2 (CEST)
Postcode
1606–1609, 1616–1617, 1696–1697
Area code 0228, 0229

Drechterland is a municipality in the Netherlands. It is located in the province of North Holland, within the West-Frisia region. This area is known for its beautiful landscapes and rich history.

The municipality was created on January 1, 1979. It was formed by combining three smaller municipalities: Hoogkarspel, Westwoud, and Oosterblokker. Its first name was "Bangert," but this was changed to "Drechterland" in 1980. Later, in 2006, the former municipality of Venhuizen also joined Drechterland, making it even larger.

Exploring Drechterland's Towns

Drechterland is made up of several interesting towns, villages, and districts. Each one has its own unique charm and history.

Main Communities in Drechterland

Here are the main places that make up the municipality of Drechterland:

  • Hem
  • Hoogkarspel
  • Oosterblokker
  • Oosterleek
  • Oosterwijzend
  • Schellinkhout
  • Venhuizen
  • Westerwijzend
  • Westwoud
  • Wijdenes

Understanding Drechterland's Geography

The landscape of Drechterland is typical of the Netherlands, with much of it being flat land. This area is often below sea level, protected by dikes.

Gem-Drechterland-OpenTopo
Dutch topographic map of the municipality of Drechterland, June 2015

What is Topography?

Topography is the study of the shapes and features of the Earth's surface. A topographic map, like the one shown, helps us understand the land's elevation and natural features. It shows how flat or hilly an area is, and where rivers or lakes are located.

Famous People from Drechterland

Many interesting people, from explorers to athletes, have come from Drechterland. Their achievements have made a mark on history and in their fields.

Historical Figures and Artists

  • Jan Jacobszoon May van Schellinkhout (17th century, born in Schellinkhout): He was a Dutch seafarer and explorer. A place called Jan Mayen is named after him.
  • Cornelis Jacobsen Mey (17th century, born in Schellinkhout): Another Dutch explorer, he was also a captain and traded furs.
  • Wilhelmus Nuyens (1823 in Avenhorn – 1894): A Dutch historian who studied and wrote about the past.
  • Vincent Mentzel (born 1945 in Hoogkarspel): A famous Dutch newspaper photographer. He is known for his realistic style of photography.

Sports Stars from Drechterland

  • Hendrik Offerhaus (1875 in Venhuizen – 1953): A Dutch rower who won a bronze medal at the 1900 Summer Olympics.
  • Mathieu Boots (born 1975 in Venhuizen): A Dutch football player who played in over 250 club games before he retired.
  • Thomas Koenis (born 1989 in Hoogkarspel): A Dutch professional basketball player.
  • Erik Schouten (born 1991 in Westwoud): A Dutch professional footballer who played in 140 games for FC Volendam.

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