Consider Amsterdam. Canals define it and bridges connect it. Today we focus on one such connector the Vaartbrug.
Amsterdam boasts over 1,700 bridges. The Vaartbrug is one of many spanning the city’s 165 canals. These canals aren’t just pretty. They were built to drain the marshy land. This drainage allowed the Dutch to build on what was once waterlogged.
Imagine Amsterdam without these waterways. It would be a very different place. Canals also became crucial for transport and trade. In the 17th century goods moved by water. Today they contribute to the city’s charm and economy.
The Dutch are known for their cleverness. This is evident in the skinny houses lining the canals. These narrow homes reflect historical taxes. Taxes were based on the width of a property. So people built upwards instead of outwards. Many of these houses have hooks for lifting goods. These hooks remind us of the canal’s past use for deliveries.
Though tempting swimming in the canals is generally discouraged. Boats constantly ply the waters. Still Amsterdam hosts an annual City Swim. This event raises money for ALS research. The canals are cleaned for the swimmers’ safety.
Bicycles are synonymous with Amsterdam. There are more bikes than people. Sadly many end up in the canals. Around 15,000 bikes are fished out each year. “Bike fishermen” use special boats to retrieve them.
Amsterdam’s canals are a UNESCO World Heritage site. This includes the Singel, Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht. From above the canals resemble a bicycle wheel. This is ironic considering the bike retrieval efforts.
Houseboats add to Amsterdam’s unique character. Originally used by traders they became homes after World War Two. Today living on a houseboat is trendy but expensive.
The canals significantly boost the Dutch economy. They generate thousands of jobs and billions in revenue. Canal cruises bars and restaurants thrive along the waterways.
In winter the canals sometimes freeze. When safe locals enjoy ice skating. King’s Day turns the canals orange. Boats filled with celebrating people fill the waterways.
Water covers 35% of Amsterdam. This earns it the nickname “City of Water.” The canals are a tourism paradise drawing visitors worldwide.
The Vaartbrug like all Amsterdam bridges plays a vital role. It connects people and places. It facilitates daily life. Next time you cross a bridge consider its history. Consider its purpose and the stories it could tell.