Did you know that Amsterdam has more bridges than Paris? Here we are at the Van Zonbrug. This fact might surprise you. Amsterdam boasts over 1200 bridges. It is a testament to the city’s intricate canal system.
The Van Zonbrug is one of these many bridges. Amsterdam is built upon millions of poles. The city sits below sea level. These poles support everything from houses to the Amsterdam Centraal train station. The train station alone uses 9000 poles.
Amsterdam’s history is deeply entwined with water. The city began as a small fishing village in the 13th century. It was located behind a dam on the Amstel River. Amsterdam was originally named Amstelredam. This referred to the dam in the Amstel River.
Amsterdam officially became the capital of the Netherlands in 1983. Before that, everyone considered Amsterdam the capital. However, it wasn’t officially stated in the constitution. King Louis Napoleon declared Amsterdam the capital of Holland in 1806. He struggled with the Dutch language. He tried to say “I am the King of Holland”. Instead, he said “Iek bien konijn van Olland”. This translates to “I’m the rabbit of Holland”.
Amsterdam is known as the Venice of the North. It has 165 canals. These canals total more than 100 kilometers. The three main canals are Herengracht, Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht. They were built in the 17th century. This was during the Dutch Golden Age. Over 1550 monumental buildings line these canals.
The canals also pose a unique challenge. Every year, about 25000 bikes end up in the Amsterdam canals. A special boat retrieves only 8000 to 10000 of them.
Many houses along the canals have small entrances. This is because taxes were based on the facade’s width. People built high and long houses to save money.
Amsterdam is a city of diversity. It has over 821000 inhabitants. These inhabitants represent more than 170 nationalities. The city is also a cultural hub. Amsterdam has more museums per square meter than any other city in the world.
The motto under Amsterdam’s sign is heroic, determined and merciful. The sign features three crosses. One explanation is that they represent St Andrew. He was a fisherman tortured on an X-shaped cross. The symbol dates back to 1505. At that time, Amsterdam was still a fishing town.
Amsterdam’s nickname is Mokum. It comes from the Hebrew word for city. That’s makan.
So, as you cross the Van Zonbrug. Remember the rich history beneath your feet. Consider the millions of poles. Think about the canals filled with bikes. Remember the heroic, determined and merciful spirit of Amsterdam.