capital (since 1833) of the Halbkanton (demicanton) of Basel-Landschaft, northern Switzerland. It lies along the Ergolz River, southeast of Basel. First mentioned as a village in 1189, it passed to the bishop of Basel in 1305 and to the city of Basel in 1400. Notable landmarks are the 15th-century town hall, Saint Martin's church, and the Upper Gate. Liestal manufactures textiles, chemicals, ironware, machinery, and motors. The population is German speaking and mainly Protestant. Pop. (2007 est.) 13,128.