Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a modern big harbor city in the Netherlands, Northern Central Europe Holland's most modern city began as a fishing village in the 13th century at the heart of a maze of rivers and artificial waterways that together form the outlet of the rivers Rijn (Rhine) and Maas (Meuse). It was developing into an industrial and trading hub, but suffered devastating damage during World War II. Nowadays Rotterdam has grown into a vibrant, forceful city dotted with first-division cultural attractions. Redevelopment didn't obliterated the city's earthy character: its tough grittiness is part of its appeal, as are its boisterous bars and clubs. Furthermore, Rotterdam's unique architecture now brings many visitors to bike around this urbane, cosmopolitan city. Rotterdam is also a city of diversity - while the Europoort, jutting out into the North Sea, some 25km to the west of the old town and completed in 1968, can accommodate the largest of ships and makes Rotterdam is the largest port in the world, the visitor of Rotterdam can see also old Dutch-style houses in the historic Delfshaven, from where the pilgrims set sail in 1620. When visiting Rotterdam, the best idea is to get acquainted with the map of the sity and to mark some of the modern architectural sites, that you wish to see. For the rest of your time be advised to check out the busy cultural and night life of Rotterdam in the days of your visit. Known landmarks of Rotterdam are the only three old large buildings in the center that have survived: The City Hall, the St. Laurence church and the White House. Interesting museums that deserve attention are the Maritiem Museum and the The Museum Het Schielandshuis. A collection of painting, sculpture and design worth seeing is displayed at the Boymans-van-Beuningen Museum. The Dutch institutes of photography and of architecture are located right near the center, and there are lots of galleries. In February there is always the International Film Festival and every other year there is a photo biennale. The Kunsthal, designed by the famous architect Rem Koolhaas, has changing exhibitions on all sorts of expressions of art and culture. And don't forget - there are tons more of attractions, activities and interesting places to see in the city of Rotterdam, visit them and write here at HolidayStreets.com about their beauty and mystery!