Ready to discover a bridge that echoes Amsterdam’s spirit? The Lefeberbrug stands before us. It is more than just a crossing. It is a testament to Amsterdam’s intricate network of waterways.
Amsterdam is a city woven with canals. There are 165 canals totaling over 100 kilometers. These waterways have earned Amsterdam the nickname “Venice of the North”. The Lefeberbrug is one of over 1200 bridges connecting Amsterdam’s many islands.
Many goods were transported by canal in the past. Nowadays they are mostly used for recreation. Amsterdam has more canals than Venice and more bridges than Paris.
The oldest and widest bridge in Amsterdam is the Torensluis bridge from 1648. When you stand on the corner of Reguliersgracht and Herengracht you can see 15 bridges at the same time. You do have to stand on the side of the non-even numbers and count the bridge where you’re standing on as well.
Amsterdam is built on millions of poles. These support the city’s structures. Amsterdam sits slightly below sea level.
Originally, Amsterdam was a small fishing village in the 13th century. It was located behind a dam on the Amstel River. The city was named Amstelredam after this dam.
Amsterdam officially became the capital of the Netherlands in 1983. Before that, everyone considered it the capital. However, it was not officially stated in the constitution.
Amsterdam’s symbol is three crosses. One explanation is that they represent St. Andrew. He was a fisherman tortured on an X-shaped cross. The symbol dates back to 1505 when Amsterdam was a fishing town.
Amsterdam has a heroic determined and merciful motto.
Amsterdam is a city of cyclists. There are more than one million bicycles in Amsterdam. But there are only around 821000 people. About 100000 bikes are stolen yearly.
Amsterdam has many old buildings. The oldest house is in the Begijnhof. It has a wooden facade dating back to 1475.
Amsterdam is home to many cultures. The city has around 821000 inhabitants of more than 170 nationalities.
Amsterdam is very popular with tourists. Around 14 million tourists visit Amsterdam each year.
Amsterdam is a city on water. The city is located on 90 small islands.
Amsterdam is also a city of commerce. The main shopping street the Kalverstraat has existed for over 600 years. Until 1629 there was a market for cows calves and oxen there which gave the street its name.
The Lefeberbrug is a key part of Amsterdam’s charm. It connects not just land but also history and culture. As you cross the Lefeberbrug think about Amsterdam’s journey from a small village to a global city.