Updated at 2026-04-13
Haarlem Lake was once one of the largest lakes in the Netherlands. Due to its violent waters, which frequently eroded surrounding land and destroyed crops, it earned the nickname “Waterwolf.” After centuries of flooding, the government undertook a major engineering effort to drain the lake. In the spring of 1852, “Waterwolf” was finally subdued, giving rise to the municipality of Haarlemmermeer.
Language: Dutch
Area: 206 square kilometers
Population: Approx. 160, 000 people
Main Industries/Features: Haarlemmermeer is where the world-famous Schiphol Airport, which integrates transportation, industry, and urban development, is located. It's a paragon of an airport city.