Why does this river give its name to one of Europe’s most famous cities? That is the question we will answer today here at the Amstel. The Amstel river has been a vital part of the Netherlands for over 800 years. Its currents have supplied Amsterdam with water and transportation. Let’s dive into the Amstel’s fascinating story.
The name “Amstel” comes from “Aeme-stelle”. This old Dutch word means an area with a lot of water. Another interpretation suggests it means two water flows coming together. This could be because the Drecht and Kromme Mijdrecht streams meet south of Uithoorn. The area near the Amstel is called Amstelland.
In the late 12th century, fishermen settled on the Amstel’s banks. They called their home Aeme-stelle. The settlement grew into Amsterdam. Its people reclaimed land from the marshland. They dammed the estuary. Then, they renamed their settlement Amsterdam in honor of their accomplishment. Dam Square stands on top of this ancient dam.
The Dutch diverted the flow of two rivers into the Amstel. This made it larger. Engineers have altered the Amstel for centuries. They even changed its bedrock. This makes the Amstel partially artificial. The Amstel has inspired countless artists. Rembrandt captured the river on an overcast evening. His painting dramatically illuminates rural Noord-Holland. Mondrian also depicted the Amstel in a post-impressionist style.
The Amstel brewery was founded in 1870 on the river’s banks. The brewery diverted water to chill its stock. In winter, it took ice from the Amstel for refrigeration. The ice was crushed. Then it was stuffed into insulated cellars. These cellars contained Amstel beer.
The land around the Amstel is fertile. It was used to harvest peat fuel. Several towns named themselves after the river. These include Amstelveen and Ouderkerk aan de Amstel. The Amstel is a vital part of modern Dutch culture. A Liberation Day concert takes place on bridges crossing the Amstel each year. The annual Gay Pride parade ends on the Amstel’s northern banks.
Several national heritage sites line the Amstel. The Hermitage Museum overlooks the river. Amsterdam’s Jewish monument leans over its banks. Amsterdam’s municipality opened de Magere Brug in 1943. It is a beautiful bridge and among the most romantic spots in the city.
The area around the Amstel is beautiful. Parks are united by a long cycle route. This route leads out of central Amsterdam. Rides along the Amstel are breathtaking. A day-trip can travel toward Ouderkerk aan de Amstel. Then, it loops back to Amsterdam.
So next time you raise a glass of Amstel beer, remember the river that gave it its name. The Amstel River has shaped Amsterdam’s history, culture and landscape. It is a testament to Dutch engineering and artistic inspiration.