MIDDELBURG, a circle of the province of Zeeland, in the Netherlands, consisting of the island of that name, which is separated by the Eeloe water from South Beveland; it is divided into six cantons, and contains 30,000 inhabitants. The capital is the city of the same name, nearly in the centre of the island; it was once fortified, but is now with its walls converted into pleasing promenades. It is well built, and has twelve churches, one of which, the New Church, has a lofty tower, serving as a useful landmark. In 1830 it contained 14,700 inhabitants, viz. 6469 males and 8231 females. The city has manufactures of linen and woollen cloth, and is celebrated for its chocolate. It is connected by water with the West Scheldt, but its shipping operations have been on the decline, and but slightly revived since the return of peace. This city was the birth-place of the celebrated jurist Bynkershoek. Long. 3. 32. 10. E. Lat. 51. 30. 6. N.