Surprising Amsterdam during Sail 2010
From 19 August – 23 August 2010 the 8th edition of SAIL takes place: the largest, freely accessible public event in the Netherlands. For five days the Amsterdam harbor is the setting for a lively program of music, culture and no less than 600 ships. Besides the impressive Tall Ships from around the world and many classic ships from the nautical past of the Netherlands, there are also modern vessels, naval ships and replicas to admire at SAIL.
Amsterdam is the largest and capital city of the Netherlands, situated among the river Amstel. The heart of the old city has beaten since 1275, but three centuries went by before the citizens of Amsterdam could claim to be the most prosperous of Europe. During the 17th century, the Golden Age, the famous canal system was dug around the mediaeval city walls. Among the banks of the three main canals, merchants built richly decorated houses to flaunt their wealth. More than 7,000 historical houses and buildings have been converted. By now, this creates a fascinating contrast between the old and the new. Within this modern cosmopolitan centre you will find the Royal Palace on the Dam, the West Tower and many old churches.Amsterdam is often called the gateway to Europe, not only because it is an important commercial and industrial centre at the border of the North Sea, but also because of its rich social and cultural life. Amsterdam is a melting pot of nationalities.
Things to do and see in Amsterdam: A canal trip is the best way to see the most characteristic parts of Amsterdam. In August the canals are illuminated with thousands of lights. In the Vincent van Gogh museum, the Historic museum or the Municipal museum you will find a great collection of classic and modern art. The house where Rembrandt lived and worked is open to visitors.
