Westrobothnia
Westrobothnia, or Västerbotten, is a historical Province or landskap in the north of Sweden. It borders to Angermannia, Laponia, Ostrobothnia and the Gulf of Bothnia, until early 20th century. Northern Westrobothnia, is on occasion considered to be a separate traditional province called Norrbotten.
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Map highlighting the location of Westrobothnia
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Westrobothnia
Provincial flower
- Swedish
- Latin
| Mountain avens
- Kung Karls spira
- Pedicularis Sceptrum-carolinum
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| Provincial bird | Curlew
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| Provincial fish | Lamprey
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Government
For current affairs see: Västerbotten County, Norrbotten County, and Lapland Province
The southern part of Westrobothnia (15,093 km²) makes up the eastern part of the Västerbotten County. The northern part, sometimes known simply as Norrbotten, is located in the Norrbotten County and the Finnish part is located in the administrative province of Lapland.
History
Main article: History of Westrobothnia
Chartered Cities before 1971:
Following the Finnish War in 1809 the province of Westrobothnia was separated into a Swedish and a Finnish part. The main part of the province of Westrobothnia which remained within Swedish borders was divided upon Västerbotten County and Norrbotten County. Luleå, Piteå, Haparanda and Boden are located in Norrbotten County. Westrobothnia Regiment was the provincial regiment.
Geography
Main article: Geography of Westrobothnia
- Highest mountain: Åmliden 550 meters
- Largest lake: Bygdeträsket
- National parks: Culture of Westrobothnia
The etymology of Västerbotten is literally Western Bothnia, as in West of the Gulf of Bothnia. The Church Village of Gammelstad outside Luleå has been named a UNESCO World heritage site.
Heraldry
Main article: Heraldry of Westrobothnia
On January 18, 1884 all provinces gained the rights to the rank of duchy and the arms can be represented with a dukal coronet. Blazon: "Azure Seme of Mullets Or a Reindeer in full course Argent attired and hoofed Gules."
Dukes of Westrobothnia
Since 1772, Swedish Princes have been created Dukes of various provinces. This is solely a nominal title.
