Capital of the Netherlands, Constitutional capital city at the mouth of Amstel River, Netherlands.
Amsterdam is the constitutional capital of the Netherlands, located where the Amstel River meets the IJ waterway in the western part of the country. The city spreads across several artificial islands and peninsulas connected by bridges and waterways.
A dam across the Amstel River built around 1270 marks the beginning of the settlement that later became a city. During the 17th century, the city grew into a center of worldwide trade and experienced a period of intense expansion.
The canal houses date mostly from the 17th and 18th centuries and display narrow facades with large windows and hoisting beams at the gable. Many of these buildings serve today as homes or house small shops and cafés along the canal-side promenades.
Most attractions sit within the historic center, which is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Many streets are narrow and paved with cobblestones, so comfortable footwear works well for longer walks.
Although the city holds the title of capital, the government and parliament have been based in The Hague since the late 16th century. This arrangement makes it the only European capital without any government institutions residing within its boundaries.
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