Langeland

island, Denmark

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Article History

Langeland, island belonging to Denmark, in the Baltic Sea between Funen and Lolland islands. Langeland’s castle of Tranekær has been a royal residence since 1231 (rebuilt 1550), and its principal town, Rudkøbing, was chartered in 1287. The undulating, well-wooded land has fertile clay loams that support grain, and cattle and pigs are raised. There is a well-preserved Stone Age barrow in the southern part of the island, and Rudkøbing has several medieval churches and houses. A series of bridges connect Langeland to the rest of Denmark, but such links have not prevented steady depopulation of the island. Area 110 square miles (284 square km).

This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen.