Amsterdam (North Holland Province)
City of Amsterdam is located in the province of North Holland and is considered the capital of the Netherlands and the largest city in terms of population. It is also the financial and commercial center of the country. The population of Amsterdam is over 800,000 people within its administrative boundaries alone. The Amstel River cuts through the city, forming numerous canals.
History:
Amsterdam was a small fishing village in the 12th century. It was granted city status in the early 14th century and began to prosper. The city, like the rest of the Dutch regions, came under Spanish rule in 1519. Amsterdam entered a period of isolation and hostility with neighboring Dutch regions due to its allegiance to the Spanish crown against the Dutch Revolt in the late 16th century. Spain and its allies managed to control the remaining Dutch and Belgian territories. Starting from 1585, Amsterdam became the primary political and commercial center in the region, marking the beginning of its Golden Age. This era lasted until the end of the 17th century when wars between France and England began.
Amsterdam was occupied by German forces on May 10, 1940, during World War II. However, it was liberated after Germany's fall in 1945 by Allied forces.
Climate:
Amsterdam's climate is characterized by mildness in both summer and winter. Winter temperatures can reach 0 degrees Celsius in January, while summer temperatures can reach 22 degrees Celsius in July. The lowest recorded temperature in Amsterdam was -24 degrees Celsius, and the highest was 36.8 degrees Celsius. The average annual rainfall in the city is 760 mm.
Famous Places to Visit: