Bovenkarspel

Bovenkarspel () is a town in the municipality of Stede Broec in the Dutch province of North Holland. Situated in the West Friesland region, Bovenkarspel is known for its agricultural heritage, particularly its historical ties to horticulture and flower cultivation.

== Etymology == The name Bovenkarspel can be broken down into two elements that reflect its historical and geographical roots in Dutch: "Boven" means "upper" or "above", often used to distinguish between two settlements with the same name. However, in the case of Bovenkarspel, it refers to its location on a sand ridge, which gives it a slightly higher elevation than the surrounding area. "Karspel" is an old Dutch word (related to the Middle Dutch kerspel) that originally referred to a parish, specifically, a church district or community centred around a church. The name Bovenkarspel sets the settlement apart from other areas within the municipality of Stede Broec, which are named after the former swampland characteristic of the region.