Amsterdam is the capital and most populous city of the Netherlands, lying at the center of the Randstad, one of the largest metropolitan areas in Europe. Its status as the Dutch capital is mandated by the Constitution of the Netherlands. Amsterdam's name derives from Amstelredamme, indicative of the city's origin: a dam in the river Amstel. Originating as a small fishing village in the late 12th century, Amsterdam became one of the most important ports in the world during the Dutch Golden Age, a result of its innovative developments in trade.
Amsterdam has been called the "Venice of the North" for its more than one hundred kilometres of canals, about 90 islands and 1,500 bridges. The three main canals, Herengracht, Prinsengracht, and Keizersgracht, dug in the 17th century during the Dutch Golden Age, form concentric belts around the city, known as the Grachtengordel (English: The Amsterdam Canal District).
Postcard
A card showed a night view of one canal of Amsterdam. Because of Westerkerk (highest church tower in Amsterdam), I guess this one should be the longest of the main canals in Amsterdam, Prinsengracht (Prince's Canal). Andi, am I right? Cheers!
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