Amsterdam, Municipality in North Holland, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a municipality in North Holland with a network of concentric canals, bridges, and historical buildings that form its distinctive layout along the Amstel River. The city is divided into several administrative districts, combining historic neighborhoods with residential and commercial areas.
The city grew from a fishing village in the 12th century into a global trading hub during the Dutch Golden Age in the 1600s. This transformation shaped its layout and character, leaving traces visible in neighborhoods and architecture today.
The city expresses Dutch culture through its museums, galleries, and the way people use public spaces and waterways daily. Its character as a historical trading hub remains visible in how residents and visitors move through neighborhoods and interact with the built environment.
Visitors can best explore the city on foot or by bicycle, as public spaces are well-suited for these modes of transport. Hotels, restaurants, and museums cluster in central areas, while residential neighborhoods in outer districts offer quieter surroundings.
The city houses over 50 museums, including the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, displaying collections of global significance. These institutions draw millions of visitors and form a central part of cultural life here.
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