Gelder

Gelder is a term used in the Netherlands with several related meanings. It most often refers to Gelderland, a province in the eastern part of the country, and historically to the Duchy or County of Gelre (also spelled Guelders or Gelre) in the Low Countries. The word is also used as a demonym for inhabitants of Gelderland (Gelders).

The historic Duchy of Gelre emerged in the medieval Holy Roman Empire and played a significant role in medieval and early modern politics, contesting influence with neighboring powers such as Burgundy and the Dutch Republic. After the northern Dutch provinces gained independence, Gelre gradually integrated into the Dutch state. In the modern Netherlands, Gelderland is the largest province by area and serves as an administrative region with its own provincial government.

It lies in the eastern Netherlands, bordering Germany and containing landscapes like the Veluwe, a forested upland, as well as riverine areas along the Rhine and IJssel. Its capital is Arnhem, while Nijmegen is another major city, along with Apeldoorn, Doetinchem and Wageningen. The province's boundaries and institutions have evolved through reforms in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Gelderland has a diverse economy anchored in agriculture, manufacturing and services. It is home to Wageningen University & Research and Radboud University Nijmegen. Cultural heritage includes historic towns, castles and nature reserves, with the Veluwe National Park among its notable natural attractions.

Related topics include the historical Duchy of Gelre (Guelders) and the modern province of Gelderland. The name Gelder is also used to denote residents of Gelderland, and in historical sources to describe people from Gelre.