Staphorst

Staphorst is a municipality and a village in the province of Overijssel, Netherlands. The municipality had a population of 17,152 in 2021. The village of Staphorst is known for its traditional character, particularly among its Reformed Christian population.

The municipality of Staphorst is located in the northwest of Overijssel, bordering Friesland to the north and the province of Drenthe to the east. The landscape is characterized by peat bogs and heathlands, which were historically exploited for fuel. The area is also known for its agricultural activities.

Historically, Staphorst has maintained a distinct cultural identity. The traditional clothing is still worn by some residents, particularly on Sundays and special occasions. Religious life is central to the community, with a strong presence of Reformed churches. This has also influenced the social structure and traditions of the village.

The economy of Staphorst is primarily based on agriculture and small to medium-sized businesses. The municipality has seen some industrial development in recent decades, but the traditional character remains prominent. The village of Staphorst itself is the main population center, with the smaller hamlets of Punthorst, Rouveen, and IJhorst also part of the municipality.