Heerlen is called Heele in Limburg. A good way of writing, because it shows what you actually hear Limburgers say – although Hé-ulluh would be even better. Anyway, there is no r in Heerlen anyway.
I practiced correct pronunciation as I walked through a quiet and dark Heele. It was almost Vastelaovend, but not yet. They slept and rejoiced. There were flags and posters pasted behind the windows. From Prince Patrick I, Van Blòmmemeëdje Zoë and Jònkheedsprins Dylan I.
Somewhere else I saw the poster of Shtadsprins Rik I; different association, different prince. Rik I looks into the lens as if he himself can hardly believe that this happiness has befallen him. Firmly he holds his staff, and he is right. A great contrast to our royal family in The Hague, which always exudes something like ‘unfortunately we had to promise a photo opportunity’.
