Drachten

Drachten is a town in the Netherlands, located in the province of Friesland. It is the administrative center and largest town of the municipality of Smallingerland, functioning as a regional hub for commerce and services in the eastern part of the province.

The town has around 45,000 inhabitants and serves as a key center for the surrounding rural area. It developed as a market and service town and grew significantly in the 20th century, expanding housing and industrial activity to accommodate population growth and economic development.

Drachten is connected to the Dutch rail and road network. It has a railway station on the Groningen–Leeuwarden line, providing regional train services, and it is linked to regional road connections that serve nearby towns and villages. These transport links support the town’s role as a center for employment, education, and commerce in the region.

The local economy is diverse, with retail, services, and light industry playing major roles. The town supports education through several primary and secondary schools and offers cultural and public facilities, including libraries and venues for community events. Drachten also hosts various cultural and sporting activities throughout the year, contributing to its regional profile in Friesland.