Amsterdam is the
largest city and the financial and cultural capital
of the Netherlands. It is situated in the west of
the country.
It takes its name from Amstellerdam - a dam
in the river Amstel. The city was established
as a small fishing village in the late 12th century.
During the Dutch Golden Age, the city was the
leading centre of economics and diamonds.
Most of large Dutch organizations have their
head offices there. Some of the world's top companies,
like Philips and ING, are founded in the city.
Amsterdam's main attractions include the historic
canals, the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum,
Hermitage Amsterdam, Anne Frank House, its red-light
district, as well as numerous cannabis coffee
shops. Amsterdam draws more than 3.66 million
international visitors every year.
