Before 1300 Amsterdam was a small settlement of fishermen along the river Amstel. The construction of a dam in that river meant that goods had to be transferred from one ship to another. This generated work and trade, the origin of Amsterdam as a town of trade, finance and transport 

In the 17th century Amsterdam was probably the wealthiest city of the world. The opportunities for financial benefits and the welcoming attitude to immigrants made the town a most desirable place to those who suffered suppression at home. Thus, Amsterdam became a very international town. It still is. 

Although the National government resides in The Hague, Amsterdam is the capital, a title granted to Amsterdam by Luis Bonaparte, brother of Napoleon and first king of the Netherlands. For a capital, the population of Amsterdam is rather low: less than a million inhabitants. The combination of a small scale, a beautiful historic center and a very rich cultural life, makes this town almost irresistible to culture lovers.