Cheap Hotels in Amsterdam - News

Discover the Vienna of the North

Amsterdam is often the first location that springs to mind for many people when they think of Holland, but it is a comparatively young city alongside other Dutch metropolitan centres such as Nijmegen, Rotterdam and Utrecht.

The city had humble beginnings, founded as a fishing village in the 13th century, when it was originally known as Amestelledamme. This title referred to the fact that the city developed around a dam in the Amstel river, and by 1327 had evolved into Aemsterdam. A charming local tradition holds that the city was founded by two fishermen who landed on the banks of the Amstel with their dog.

However Amsterdam was originally established, it did not take long to flourish into a thriving and active place, quickly assuming the reputation for tolerance and liberty that it still enjoys today. The city reached its peak in the 17th century, an era that is considered its 'golden age', when it became one of the wealthiest cities in the world. Over the centuries the Dutch capital saw its fortunes rise and fall through periods of peace and times of adversity, all of which contributed to the sense of character and heritage that is felt so strongly today.

Visitors who want to find out more about the roots of this fascinating European capital can head to the Rijksmuseum, an establishment that is known around the world for the quality of its art collection. Arguably the highlight of the museum's archive is the 'masterpieces' section, which includes pieces by Frans Hals, Rembrandt and Johannes Vermeer, who were famous for their work during Amsterdam's golden age.

Art lovers in Amsterdam this year may also be tempted by an exhibition dedicated to Vincent van Gogh's approach to natural subjects, which will be held at the Rijksmuseum's Schiphol airport branch until July 7th. This display will feature eight paintings by the revered painter, including the famous Almond Tree in Blossom.

Holland's capital also boasts a variety of outdoor sights that contribute to its unique aesthetic appeal, including the Oude Kerk, meaning Old Church, a 14th century Gothic structure that has developed from a single-aisle church into a basilica. The heart of the city is Dam Square, a site that has played host to some moments of huge historical significance, including the arrival of Napoleon Bonaparte and his troops during the takeover of the city in 1808.

The number of canals that course through Amsterdam has led to it being known as the Venice of the North. Four main canals run through the city centre – Prinsengracht, Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Singel. Boat tours are one of the city's 'must do' activities and can be particularly enjoyable at night when the houses and bridges along the waterway are illuminated.

Its sights and historical significance comprise a large part of Amsterdam's appeal, but the entertainment on offer in the city is also one of the major reasons that it is such as popular spot with travellers. It is home to a musical venue that is renowned for its acoustics – the Concertgebouw. Alongside venues such as the Symphony Hall in Boston and the Musikverein in Vienna, this concert hall is considered one of the world's finest locations for musical performance.

The city is also home to enough theatres, nightclubs, cinemas and entertainment venues to ensure that the most culturally literate of visitors will find something they have never seen before.

This article is provided by Hotels Hotels Hotels suppliers of cheap hotels in Amsterdam

Updated: Fri, 25 Apr 2008 17:09:43

Related Links:
Amsterdam Tourist Board
Amsterdam Airport