Rotterdam

Overview

This large and modern port city has risen phoenixlike from the ashes of World War II. In 1940 the Germans bombed the city to force a fast surrender of the Netherlands. Most demolition was actually done in the process of rebuilding the city to modern standards. Only three large buildings in the center have survived miraculously: the city hall, the St. Laurence church and the White House.

Today Rotterdam is the most modern city in The Netherlands, with the high rising towers of company buildings in the center. Some people think it became a playground for architects trying their theories and thus making Rotterdam one giant wind tunnel, but you can really feel things are happening here if you are interested in architecture. For quite some time it is the place to be for a perfect night out. Though Rotown has decent, though small acts and is well-known internationally, The Thalialounge is the place to see and be seen in a groovy club atmosfere, and De Doelen is a wonderful venue for classical music. Clubs like Now&Wow and Baja Beach Club are very popular in The Netherlands. Rotterdam has become nightlife city number one, taking over this position from Amsterdam.

Symbol of Rotterdam is the Euromast Space Tower, 605ft/184m tall that had to be extended several times to keep its leading position as highest building of the Meuse city. From this tower with its revolving sit-down elevator you have an excellent view over the city and the surrounding industrial harbour landscape. The...more

History