One of the world’s most familiar European countries. From clogs and tulips to windmills and canals, Holland has more than its share of national symbols.
The beautiful city of Amsterdam has flourished over the centuries since its origins as a fishing village. During the 17th century, Amsterdam became the centre of world trade and the largest port and most prosperous city in northern Europe, entering what became known as its ‘Golden Age’. Along with the economic success came important cultural activity, artists such as Rembrandt van Rijn made their finest paintings here, and architecture also soared to new heights, to which the city still bears witness.
