Hengelo

Hengelo is a city and municipality in the eastern Netherlands, located in the province of Overijssel within the Twente region. It sits along the river Dinkel, near Enschede and Almelo, and is close to the German border. The municipality has roughly 85,000 inhabitants.

The area has medieval roots and developed as a textile center in the 19th century, drawing workers to mills and factories and driving rapid urban growth. In the second half of the 20th century, the textile industry declined, and Hengelo diversified into metalworking, machinery, logistics, and other services. Today the economy is characterized by a mix of manufacturing, distribution, and professional services in the broader Twente economy.

Education and culture in Hengelo are served by a network of primary and secondary schools, with higher education and research opportunities available in the surrounding Twente region, including nearby university towns. The city maintains cultural facilities, parks, and community activities that contribute to local life.

Transport connections support Hengelo’s role within the region. The city has a railway station on the Zwolle–Enschede line, providing connections to major Dutch cities, and its road network links it with neighboring towns and municipalities. Hengelo participates in regional development initiatives within Twente and collaborates with nearby municipalities on economic and social programs.