As Amsterdam gears up to celebrate its 750th anniversary in 2025, the city’s rich and storied past will take center stage. Amsterdam’s history is filled with moments of triumph, innovation, and resilience, all of which have shaped the city into the iconic European destination it is today. Whether you’re planning to join the celebrations or are simply curious about its fascinating journey, let’s take a stroll through time and explore some of the most captivating moments and little-known facts from Amsterdam’s 750-year story.
Where did Amsterdam start?
Did you know that Amsterdam started out as a tiny fishing village? In 1275, the city was officially granted the right to charge tolls on the Amstel River, marking its first recorded mention in history. The original settlers built a dam to protect their homes from flooding, which is how the city got its name—”Amstel-dam.”
From there, things quickly took off. By the 17th century, during the Dutch Golden Age, Amsterdam had transformed into one of the wealthiest cities in the world. At its height, Amsterdam was the center of global trade, with ships from all corners of the world bringing in spices, silk, and exotic goods. The city was also home to the Dutch East India Company, the world’s first multinational corporation and the first to issue stock—a true powerhouse of global commerce.
Amsterdam’s famous canals
One of the most iconic features of Amsterdam is its intricate canal system, which was built to manage the constant threat of flooding and allow for the city’s rapid expansion. What most people don’t know is that the canals form a perfect concentric ring, which not only looks stunning from above but also helped create a seamless transport network. In fact, Amsterdam has over 165 canals, totaling more than 100 kilometers in length—more waterways than Venice! This ingenious design earned the Canal Ring UNESCO World Heritage status, and it remains one of the best-preserved examples of 17th-century urban planning.
Cats on canal boats?
Here’s a quirky piece of trivia—Amsterdam’s canals are not just for boats. Some of the houseboats on the canals are actually home to cats! The “Poezenboot” (Cat Boat) is a floating sanctuary for stray cats, founded in 1966. It’s one of the most unique places you’ll find in Amsterdam, and visitors are welcome to meet the furry residents.
Hidden gem’s: The secret Begijnhof
Among Amsterdam’s medieval treasures is the Begijnhof, a hidden courtyard right in the heart of the city. Built in the 14th century, the Begijnhof was home to the Beguines, a group of devout women who lived like nuns but didn’t take formal vows. This peaceful haven is a world away from the bustling city streets and features some of Amsterdam’s oldest buildings, including the city’s only remaining wooden house from the early 1500s!
The “lean” of Amsterdam’s historic buildings
If you walk along Amsterdam’s streets, you might notice that some of the old buildings look like they’re leaning forward. This isn’t just an illusion! Many of Amsterdam’s houses were built with a slight forward tilt to prevent goods hoisted up by rope (a common practice in the 17th century) from damaging the façade. It also helped rainwater drain away more efficiently. Today, these “leaning houses” are a quirky and much-loved feature of the city’s historic architecture.
A city of artists and free spirits
Amsterdam has long been a haven for artists, free thinkers, and nonconformists. During the Dutch Golden Age, the city was home to some of the greatest painters in history, including Rembrandt and Vermeer. Rembrandt’s house, where he lived and worked for many years, is now a museum where you can step back into the 17th century and see his studio just as it was. In more recent history, Amsterdam became a symbol of peace, freedom, and tolerance. The city was one of the first in the world to legalize same-sex marriage and has always been a progressive force when it comes to social justice and human rights. It’s no wonder that it continues to attract people from all over the world who value its open-minded, welcoming atmosphere.
Celebrating 750 years of history in 2025
As Amsterdam approaches its 750th birthday, (27 October 2025) the city is planning a year of spectacular celebrations that will highlight its past, present, and future. From special exhibitions and festivals to historical tours and art installations, 2025 promises to be an unforgettable time to visit. Whether you’re fascinated by the city’s maritime heritage, its rich artistic legacy, or its contemporary culture, there will be something for everyone. So, whether you’re visiting for the celebrations or simply to enjoy the timeless beauty of Amsterdam, there’s no better time to explore this remarkable city and its incredible history.
Stay at Leonardo Hotels Amsterdam >>
When visiting Amsterdam for the 750th anniversary, stay at one of Leonardo Hotels’ prime locations in the city. Whether you’re exploring the historic canal district or enjoying the vibrant neighborhoods of Amsterdam City Center and Rembrandtpark, Leonardo Hotels provide the perfect home base for your adventure. With modern comforts, impeccable service, and convenient access to the city’s main attractions, your stay in Amsterdam will be nothing short of unforgettable.
For all history lovers, we offer a 10% discount through our Leonardo Hotels Advantage Club – for free! Come join us.
