Overijssel, Province in eastern Netherlands
Overijssel is a province in the eastern Netherlands, extending from the German border to the IJssel River. The area includes flat landscapes, river valleys, and towns spread between farmland and forested hills in the east.
The area belonged to the bishops of Utrecht until 1528, when it became part of the seven provinces that broke away from Spain. The region played a role in the independence wars and later developed into a center for textile production.
The name comes from its position across the IJssel River, as people in Holland once described it. Cities like Zwolle and Kampen still show their role in medieval trade, with harbor districts and old warehouses along the rivers.
The province is best explored by bicycle or car, as many villages and natural areas lie outside the larger towns. Visitors find cycling paths and walking routes through forests, heathlands, and along rivers.
In Giethoorn, most residents use small boats instead of cars to go shopping or visit neighbors. The village was built on peat islands connected only by narrow canals and footpaths.
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