The Netherlands is a country with a low of 20% and 21% of the population living below sea level, and 50% of the area above sea level of up to one meter. This feature, which is why they are called in Dutch, English and other European languages. Name means "the low" or "the Low Countries" region, most of which lies below sea level caused by man. As a result of peat extraction (peat) is widespread and poorly controlled centuries, several meters below the surface. Even in areas flooded Pete continued extraction by dredging area. Since the end of the 16th century began with the restoration of land and currently has a reserved space polls Durban (polder) Large complex drainage system that includes the flap. Canals and pumping stations, nearly 17% of the country is caused by the reclamation area. Wide areas of the Netherlands, the estuary of the major rivers of Europe, and three branches beyond the river delta of the Rhine - Merge Left - left Gail uncontrollably. (Rhine-Meuse-Scheldt delta) Most parts of the country is flat. The hills to the southeast and several low mountain range in the central valleys.