Amsterdam used to be called Amstelredam. It was founded on a dam built to control the Amstel river’s flooding. That is how important bridges are to this city. Today we are standing at Kekermetrobrug.
Kekermetrobrug is more than just a way to cross from one side to the other. It represents Amsterdam’s growth and its commitment to innovation. Amsterdam began as a small fishing village in the 12th century. Fishermen settled along the Amstel River. They built a dam and a bridge for protection. The term “Aemstelredamme” appeared in 1275. It meant “dam in the river Amstel”. This eventually became “Amsterdam”.
Bridges are vital for Amsterdam. There are more than 160 canals totaling around 100km. Amsterdam has more canals than Venice. Amsterdam also has 1281 bridges. This is four times more than Venice.
The Kekermetrobrug helps connect different parts of the city. Amsterdam’s canal district is world famous. Many bridges link the different parts of the city. The council works hard to restore them. Around 850 bridges and 200 kilometers of wharf have top priority. This also represents an opportunity to create a better and greener Amsterdam.
Did you know Amsterdam is built on about 11 million wooden poles? The ground is very wet, because Amsterdam is below sea level. The clay soil is soft and can shift. Buildings could move around without these poles. Some canal houses look tilted. They are nicknamed Dancing Houses. The Central Railway Station stands on 8687 wooden poles. The Royal Palace at Dam Square is built on 13659 poles.
Amsterdam is also a safe place. It was considered a safe haven for European Jews during the Holocaust. The city is nicknamed Mokum. This comes from the Yiddish word for “safe place”.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the Kekermetrobrug. It is a testament to Amsterdam’s past. It is a bridge to the city’s future. A future of continued growth and connection. It is more than just a crossing. It is a symbol of Amsterdam itself.