Number of inhabitants (1 Jan 2003): 11.674; area: 12,37 km². Settlements:
Laren (seat).
The official coat of arms of Laren was granted on 22 Oct 1817 by the
High Council of Nobility as a "Coat of Arms of azure, charged with an "S" or". This
was interpreted as a 'warrekam' - an instrument to comb sheep-wool.
Later research revealed that it is probably an "L", initial of Laren.
Source: the Laren municipal site.
Ralf Hartemink has tried
to solve the S-riddle, scrutinizing over 13 explanations - but it probably
will remain a myStery...