Ommelanden

The Ommelanden were historically surrounding districts in the northern Netherlands, particularly associated with the province of Groningen. For a long time, the city of Groningen was in conflict with these surrounding districts. While Groningen gained dominance, disputes continued. The Ommelanden joined the Union of Utrecht and the revolt against Spain, whereas the city of Groningen remained loyal to the Spanish king. After 1594, they were united into one republic, but the Ommelanden maintained their own government until 1795 when they were merged into a single province with Groningen. The Ommelanden were known for their rich agricultural land, producing wheat, barley, oats, potatoes, sugar beets, and supporting livestock.1