The capital and the largest city of the Netherlands
Founded in the late 12th century, Amsterdam’s name originates from a dam on the Amstel River
The city’s nickname, Mokum, is derived from the Hebrew word ‘Makom’, which means ‘place’.
The city is also often called ‘Venice of the North’, due to the many canals.
Amsterdam became a metropolis since the second half of the sixteenth century. Amsterdam now hosts more than 750,000 residents from 175 different countries. 37% of the population belong to an ethnic minority. There is an open and tolerant atmosphere in the city.
Traditionally, Amsterdam was a trading city. In order to be successful in trade, good social networks were indispensable.
Furthermore, it was crucial to the city and its inhabitants that land and water were developed and maintained.
A tolerant and open society as such, attracts people from every corners of the world; and these in turn must feel that their place in the city is protected.
Language
The official language of the Netherlands is Dutch.
The majority of Amsterdam’s residents speak English well and are often fluent in one or two languages on top of that.
One can usually get by effortlessly in Amsterdam without a knowing word of Dutch. For those keen to try, learning a few words or phrases will always go a long way with the locals.
The Dutch ‘g’ is normally pronounced mid-throat, sounding similar to the ‘ch’ in loch or Bach.…
