Utrecht (province)

Utrecht is the smallest province of the Netherlands, and is located in the center of the country. It is bordered by the IJsselmeer in the north, Gelderland in the east, the river Rhine in the south, South Holland in the west, and North Holland in the northwest.

History

In the Middle Ages, most of the area of the current province was ruled by the bishop of Utrecht. The bishopric was founded in 722 by Willibrord. Many wars were fought between Utrecht and the neighbouring counties and duchies, Holland, Gelderland and Brabant.

Related Topics:
Bishop of Utrecht - 722 - Willibrord - Holland - Gelderland - Brabant

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In 1527, the bishop of Utrecht sold his worldly power over his territories to Emperor Charles V, who already owned the other Dutch provinces. However, the Habsburg rule did not last long, as Utrecht joined the revolt of the United Provinces against Charles' son Philip II of Spain in 1579.

Related Topics:
1527 - Charles V - United Provinces - Philip II of Spain

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In World War II, Utrecht was held by German forces until the general capitulation of the Germans in the Netherlands on May 5, 1945. It was occupied by Canadian Allied forces on May 7, 1945.

Related Topics:
May 5 - 1945 - May 7

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The towns of Oudewater, Woerden and Vianen were transfered from the province of South Holland to Utrecht in 1970, 1989 and 2002 respectively.

Related Topics:
Oudewater - Woerden - Vianen - South Holland

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