Which provinces formed the Union of Arras in 1579?

The Union of Arras, established on January 6, 1579, was a conservative alliance formed by the southern provinces of Artois and Hainaut, along with the town of Douay.12

This union was created by provinces that feared the growing influence of more radical, urban, and commercial regions. By forming this alliance, these provinces sought to retain the Roman Catholic religion, maintain loyalty to the Spanish king, and preserve the privileges of their estates, effectively distancing themselves from the resistance movements led by the northern provinces. The formation of the Union of Arras served as a catalyst for the subsequent Union of Utrecht, which united the northern provinces in their continued opposition to Spanish rule.21