Balinge
Balinge is a village located in the municipality of Midden-Drenthe in the Netherlands, situated in the province of Drenthe. It lies approximately 7 kilometers northeast of Westerbork. Balinge is primarily an agricultural village, characterized by its rural landscape and historical farming practices.
The village's name is thought to derive from Old Saxon, likely referring to a settlement associated with a person named "Balo" or a similar root. Historically, Balinge has been a small, close-knit community with a focus on agriculture and livestock farming. The village is often associated with the wider Westerbork region, known for its WWII history.
Modern Balinge remains a relatively quiet village, retaining much of its rural character. While agriculture remains important, some residents also commute to nearby towns and cities for work. The village features a mix of older farmhouses and newer residential dwellings. Balinge's population is relatively small, contributing to its quiet and rural atmosphere.