Langedijke (West Frisian: Langedike) is a village in the municipality of Ooststellingwerf, located in the province of Friesland, the Netherlands. As of 2021, the village had a population of 320 inhabitants and covers an area of 4.76 km² (1.84 sq mi), resulting in a population density of approximately 67 inhabitants per km². The settlement lies at an elevation of about 5 m (16 ft) above sea level.
Etymology and History
The name Langedijke was first recorded in 1408 as “Langedijc,” a compound of the Dutch words lang (long) and dijk (dike), meaning “long dike.” Historically, the village was part of a parish that belonged to the Drenthe deanery around the year 1500. In 1840, Langedijke was home to 36 people. The local church was demolished in 1830; only a bell tower remains, housing a bell dating from circa 1300, which is among the oldest bells in Friesland.
Geography and Administration
Langedijke is situated in the eastern part of Friesland. It falls under the Central European Time zone (UTC+1) and observes Central European Summer Time (UTC+2). The village’s postal code is 8425, and the telephone dialing code is 0516.
Demographics
According to the Dutch Central Bureau of Statistics, the village’s population was 320 in 2021, reflecting modest growth since the mid‑19th century.
Cultural Features
A notable landmark is the historic bell tower with its medieval bell. The village also features a statue titled “The Milker,” reflecting local agrarian heritage.
References
- Central Bureau of Statistics, “Kerncijfers wijken en buurten 2021.”
- Etymologiebank, entry on Langedijke.
- Ronald Stenvert & Sabine Broekhoven, Oosterwolde (2000).