750 years of Amsterdam in themes

750 years of Amsterdam in themes

The name Amestelledamme was first mentioned in 1275. It is the name of the dam in the Amstel that protected the hinterland against flooding and invading salt water from the Zuiderzee. The water was both a blessing and a torment for the city and remained an important theme in the history of Amsterdam. In addition to water management, the city's history has more pieces of great significance: trade and shipping, economy, religion, immigration, tolerance and freedom, slavery, epidemics, social provisions, architectural styles, art, science and WWII, and streetart

During a walk through the old city centre you will become acquainted with these matters, after which you will know why Amsterdam grew from an insignificant settlement to a city that was considered the centre of the world. You will also know that the tolerance and freedom in the city attracted a stream of immigrants, including merchants, with artists, architects and scientists in their wake. In contrast to surrounding countries, Jewish refugees were able to build a life in relative freedom. Social provisions were also at a high level. We will not avoid the dark pages in the walk. Not only the role of Amsterdam in the slave trade, but also the periods of great poverty and pollution that could lead to deadly epidemics. Of course, the Second World War also left deep scars. From the Miracle of Amsterdam to the construction of the North/South line, a walk in topics that will certainly pleasantly surprise you.

The walk starts in the Sint Luciënsteeg near the Kalverstraat and ends at the Waterlooplein.

Other preferences?

Would you prefer this tour in a language other than Dutch or at a departure time outside of the scheduled 10:00 till 15:00 hours? Feel free to share any additional ideas or desires you may have regarding the guided tour; there are various options available. However, we recommend contacting us well in advance if you wish to organize a customized tour.