Haarlem, Capital city of North Holland province, Netherlands
Haarlem is the capital city of North Holland province in the Netherlands, situated along the banks of the Spaarne river. The center is arranged around a network of canals and narrow cobblestone streets, while the Grote Markt serves as the central square with the Sint-Bavokerk church and town hall.
A 10th-century settlement grew through trade on sandy dunes between present Amsterdam road and the river. City rights in 1245 brought growth through textile industry, later followed by tulip cultivation and painting during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century.
The cityscape shows windmill Adriaan on the Spaarne river and many hofjes, small hidden courtyards with gardens tucked between older buildings. Local markets on Botermarkt and along the canals offer fresh produce and flowers, while narrow lanes around the Grote Markt hold small shops and cafés.
Trains connect the city regularly with Amsterdam in about 15 minutes and with other cities in the region. Bicycle paths run throughout the center and surrounding areas, while many streets in the historic core are friendly for walking.
Residents carry the nickname Muggen because of old stories about defensive courage against invaders. The herb market on Botermarkt on Saturdays has run for centuries and remains a lively meeting point for locals.
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