Dongeradeel

Dongeradeel was a municipality in the northern Netherlands, located in the province of Friesland. It was one of the eleven historic regions of Friesland and formed part of the Noordoostpolder. The municipality's administrative center was Dokkum. The area was known for its flat, rural landscape, characterized by meadows, waterways, and small villages. Historically, Dongeradeel was an agricultural region with a strong connection to the sea, as it was situated close to the Wadden Sea.

The municipality of Dongeradeel was established in 1984 through the amalgamation of several smaller municipalities. Before this administrative reform, the region had a long and complex history, with its origins dating back to the medieval period. Dokkum, the main city within Dongeradeel, is famous as the birthplace of Saint Boniface, who was martyred there in 754 AD. This historical significance has made Dokkum a pilgrimage site and a notable tourist destination.

Dongeradeel was characterized by a number of villages, each with its own distinct identity and history. These included areas such as Kollum, Metslawier, and Burdaard. The local economy was primarily based on agriculture, particularly dairy farming, and some small-scale industry. The region also had a developing tourism sector, attracted by its natural beauty and historical sites.

In 2019, Dongeradeel ceased to exist as an independent municipality. It merged with the municipalities of Ferwerderadiel and Kollumerland en Nieuw-Kruisland to form the new municipality of Noardeast-Fryslân, which translates to Northeast Friesland. This administrative change aimed to create larger, more efficient local government structures within the province. Despite the administrative changes, the historical and cultural identity of the Dongeradeel region continues to be recognized and celebrated within the new municipality.