In 1275, no one could ever have imagined that a simple dam on the Amstel River would become a city that pioneered so many elements of modern life in the 21st century. As Amsterdam marks ¾ of a millennium, travel lovers with 20/20 hindsight can celebrate the European capital’s contributions to shaping our world today, as well as what continues to make it a beacon for visitors.
The Dutch capital marks its official start by that 13th-century document granting it city rights and allowing local residents to build a dam to manage the flow of the Amstel river without paying tolls. This pivotal moment was the foundation of transforming a tiny fishing village into a thriving urban center.
And it didn’t take long for Amsterdam to become a hub for trade, culture and innovation.
Cradle of Modern Commerce – with the Architecture and Culture to Match
Key features of the modern Western World’s economic structure harken back to the 17th century when Amsterdam became the center of global finance and commerce:
The Dutch East India Company, founded in 1602, imported spices, textiles and precious metals from the Far East. It was the first company in the world to offer publicly traded shares.
And said to be the most valuable company EVER: valued at its peak at over $8.2 trillion in today’s dollars – far more than even today’s mega corporations. (Today’s most valuable companies are Microsoft, Apple and Nvidia, each worth less than half that.)
The Amsterdam Stock Exchange, also founded in 1602, was the world’s first modern stock market (the city was also home to the first-ever international bond market and other banking and insurance innovations).
Immense trade fortunes translated into cultural and architectural riches, including:
- The famous network of canals, lined by storehouses topped with signature rooflines;
- The famous Dutch school of painters; and
landmarks like Dam Square and the Canal Ring
which are lasting reminders and modern-day visitor attractions of this era of prosperity.
Social Innovation, Technology, Sustainability: The Birth of Modern Lifestyle Trends
Not only was Amsterdam the cradle of modern capitalism.
In its eminently practical, ‘live and let live’ way, the city has also been at the vanguard of ways of life other places have – often slowly – followed:
Tolerance:
If you think it’s about the famous Red Light District and window shopping legalized prostitution, you’re missing the point. In the 1960s and 1970s, Amsterdam became the epicenter of movements focusing on sexual freedom, drug policy reform, and LGBTQ+ rights, positioning itself as one of the most progressive cities in the world.
The city continues to shout out its commitment to reducing barriers and eliminating outdated laws, with inclusivity being part of everyday life as well as celebrations for residents and visitors alike.
Cycling Infrastructure:
In the 1970s, Amsterdam became a leader in sustainable urban mobility by developing its extensive cycling infrastructure. The city’s commitment to green transportation has had a lasting impact, making it one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world and a model for other urban centers. There are more bicycles than people in the city today! And even visitors embrace cycling as the best way to navigate the city.
Sustainability as a Way of Life:
Beyond bicycles, Amsterdam leads the world with a new, circular economy by reducing waste, promoting the reuse of resources, and minimizing the environmental impact of the city.
Inventor-Friendly:
Today, Amsterdam is also recognized as a hub for startups and technological innovation, home to numerous startups, incubators, and venture capitalists supporting new ventures and groundbreaking solutions.
The combination of historic culture and architecture, and leading-edge modern lifestyles, makes Amsterdam a magnet for visitors, 750 years after permission for that first dam.
Amsterdam 750 Celebrations
The city’s celebrations run through October 2025, featuring a diverse array of events that highlight Amsterdam's cultural heritage, artistic achievements, and vibrant community spirit.
Festival on the Ring A10 – June 21, 2025
On the longest day of the year, the 15-kilometer Ring A10 motorway is transformed into a vibrant, festival space featuring music, dance, theater, and sports, celebrating the city's dynamic culture and community.
SAIL Amsterdam – August 2025
SAIL Amsterdam, a grand maritime event, returns in 2025 to coincide with the anniversary celebrations. Tall ships from around the world gather in the city's harbors, offering a spectacular display of maritime heritage.
ARTZUID 2025 – Summer 2025
The ARTZUID sculpture biennale presents "Enlightenment," an exhibition reflecting Amsterdam's values of freedom and tolerance. The outdoor display features works by renowned global artists set against the backdrop of the city's urban landscape.
Special Exhibitions
Major museums, including the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, are hosting special exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing Amsterdam's artistic legacy and contributions to global culture.
For a comprehensive list of events and activities, visit the official Amsterdam 750 website: amsterdam750.nl.
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By: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert.
Images: Lynn Elmhirst
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