Amsterdam is the capital and largest city of the Netherlands, founded in the 13th century as a small fishing village around a dam built on the «Amstel» River — the source of its name. During the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century, the city became one of the world's leading trade ports, as the Dutch East India Company ran a vast commercial network reaching Asia from here.
The City of Canals and Golden-Age Heritage
A network of historic canals, some dating back to the 17th century, runs through the heart of Amsterdam, and its main canal ring is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The city holds an exceptional artistic legacy through the «Rijksmuseum» and the «Van Gogh Museum», alongside the «Anne Frank House», which documents the story of the Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during the German occupation.
- Over 100 kilometers of canals and more than 1,500 bridges
- The Van Gogh Museum holds the world's largest collection of the artist's works
- The Anne Frank House is a historic site visited by millions each year
- Bicycles are the primary mode of transport for the city's residents
Amsterdam today is known for its narrow, gable-fronted houses, houseboats lining the canals, and a tolerant atmosphere that has made it a global cultural and tourist destination.
