Amsterdam is a city of canals. But have you ever stopped to consider the bridges that connect it all?
Today we’re standing before the Kettingbrug. It is more than just a way to cross the water. It is an integral part of Amsterdam’s charm.
Amsterdam boasts over 165 canals. These waterways stretch for more than 100 km. The city is rightly nicknamed the Venice of the North.
Connecting these canals are over 1,200 bridges. The Kettingbrug is one of them. This city has triple the number of bridges compared to Venice.
Amsterdam was built on marshy land. Clever Dutch engineers dug canals to drain the water. This allowed for transport and construction. Dikes protected the area from the sea. A saying goes, “God created the world but the Dutch created the Netherlands.”
These canals weren’t just for practical use. They have also greatly impacted the Dutch economy. The canals have created about 50,000 jobs. They generate over 2 billion euros in revenue each year. This includes canal cruises, canalside bars, restaurants and water taxis.
Amsterdam’s canals are iconic. The Dutch embrace their culture and share it with the world.
Some of the most famous canals include Singel, Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht. These canals form a horseshoe shape when viewed from above.
The canals even become skating rinks during winter. When freezing weather is expected, parts of the canals are closed off. Locals take advantage of this rare winter magic.
But the canals can be treacherous. Up to 15,000 bikes are pulled out of them each year. Some fall in by accident, others due to vandalism. Fortunately, Amsterdam has “bike fishermen.” These boats scoop up bikes and other waste.
Amsterdam’s canals became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010. They were originally built in the 17th century. They served as a way to transport food and goods.
Many people live on houseboats along these canals. There are over 2,500 houseboats in Amsterdam. Buying one in the city center can cost a lot. It can be upwards of 10,000 euros per square meter.
Amsterdam’s symbol features three black crosses. They are Saint Andrew’s Crosses. These represent Saint Andrew, a fisherman martyred on a cross. The symbol dates back to the 16th century. At that time Amsterdam was a small fishing town.
So next time you cross the Kettingbrug, remember the history beneath your feet. Remember the ingenuity that built this beautiful city. It is a testament to Dutch innovation.