Doesn’t its name evoke images of watery gates? The Horregatbrug is more than just a bridge. It is a testament to Amsterdam’s intricate network of waterways. It is also a city where canals define its character.
Amsterdam has 165 canals. Together, they stretch over 75 kilometers. These waterways inspired the nickname “Venice of the North”. The canals divide the city into small islands. They are linked by more than 1200 bridges. The Horregatbrug plays its part in this fascinating system.
Amsterdam is built on millions of poles. These poles support the city that is below sea level. The train station alone needs 9000 poles. The wooden poles are placed in a sandy layer about 11 meters deep. Imagine the engineering. It makes everyday life possible.
Amsterdam has a rich history. It began as a small fishing village in the 13th century. It was protected by a dyke from the Amstel river. The city was named Amstelredam. This refers to the dam on the Amstel river.
In 1275, Amsterdam gained a toll privilege. Count Floris V granted it. This privilege exempted residents from bridge tolls. This made Amsterdam attractive to international traders. They could sell goods at lower prices.
Amsterdam officially became the capital of the Netherlands in 1983. Before that, everyone considered Amsterdam the capital. Yet, it was not officially stated in the constitution. King Louis Napoleon declared Amsterdam to be the capital in 1806. He tried to learn Dutch. He wanted to say “I am the King of Holland.” But he said, “I am the rabbit of Holland.”
The three crosses under Amsterdam’s sign represent heroic, determined and merciful. Some believe the crosses represent St Andrew. He was tortured on an X-shaped cross. This symbol dates back to 1505. At that time, Amsterdam was a fishing town.
Amsterdam has more canals than Venice. It also has more bridges than Paris. About 25,000 bikes end up in Amsterdam’s canals each year. A special boat retrieves around 8,000 to 10,000 bikes. Amsterdam has about 1515 bars and cafes.
The three main canals are Herengracht, Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht. They were created in the 17th century during the Dutch Golden Age. You can find more than 1550 historic buildings along these canals. Amsterdam has more than 7000 historic buildings.
Most canal houses have small entrances. This is because taxes were based on the facade size. That is why houses were built high and long. The smallest facade is at Singel 7. It is only 1 meter wide. The house rapidly increases in width as it goes back.
Amsterdam has the most carillons in the world. Most of them date back to the Golden Age. The widest house is at Kloveniersburgwal 29. It is 22 meters wide.
The Jordaan and the Pijp became popular. Wealthy yuppies and students resided there. The poor neighborhoods became more prosperous. This was thanks to the service economy.
So, as you cross the Horregatbrug, remember its history. Remember that Amsterdam is more than just a pretty picture. It is a city of ingenuity, resilience, and stories waiting to be discovered.