History of Amsterdam (2026): from origins to modern metropolis
Blog | Posted on 28 May 2026
Last update: February 2026
The history of Amsterdam begins in the 13th century and shows how a small settlement near a dam in the Amstel River grew into the capital of the Netherlands. This overview covers chronologically the origin in 1275, the city rights in 1306, the Golden Age with the VOC and the construction of the canals, the 19th century when Amsterdam became the capital in 1814, World War II and modern development until 2026. If you want to experience this historic city for yourself, you can discover the canals on a canal cruise through Amsterdam.
TLDR / quick answer
- 1275: first mention in the toll privilege of Floris V
- 1306: Amsterdam receives city rights
- 1602-1700: Golden Age, VOC and canal construction
- 1814: Amsterdam officially becomes the capital of the Netherlands
- 2026: about 920,000 inhabitants and about 100 km of canals
Chronological timeline
| Period | Event | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1275 | Floris V toll privilege | first written mention |
| 1306 | city rights | official city |
| 1602 | founding of the VOC | world trade |
| 1613 | start construction of ring of canals | planned urban expansion |
| 1662 | completion of third explanation | completion canal structure |
| 1814 | capital | constitutional status |
| 1940-1945 | World War II | occupation and persecution |
| 2018 | opening of North/South line | modern infrastructure |
How did Amsterdam come to be
Amsterdam arose around a dam in the Amstel River, on the site of today’s Dam. The dam protected against flooding and made trade possible.
When did Amsterdam come into existence: the first mention dates back to 1275.
What Amsterdam used to be called: Amestelledamme, which means dam in the Amstel River.
Amsterdam established as a city: in 1306, the settlement was granted city rights.
The Golden Age and the VOC
In 1602, the United East India Company was founded. Amsterdam grew to become the financial center of Europe. By 1650, the city had about 200,000 inhabitants.
The city became known for trade, shipping and art. Rembrandt worked in Amsterdam and lived in what is now the Rembrandt House. The 17th century is still visible in the streets and during the Rembrandt Cruise.
The ring of canals: origins and UNESCO
Construction of the ring of canals began in 1613 as part of a large-scale urban expansion. The main canals are Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht.
Oldest canal: The Oudezijds Voorburgwal is considered one of the oldest canals in Amsterdam.
How many canals: about 165.
How many kilometers of canals and waterways: about 100 kilometers of canals and more than 1,200 bridges.
In 2010, the ring of canals was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Why is Amsterdam the capital
Amsterdam officially became the capital of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1814. However, the government and parliament are based in The Hague.
Amsterdam during World War II
In May 1940, the Netherlands was occupied by Germany. Amsterdam had a large Jewish community. More than 60,000 Jewish Amsterdammers were deported. The Anne Frank House is a reminder of this period.
Population growth and neighborhoods
The population grew from about 30,000 in 1400 to about 200,000 in 1650. By 2026, Amsterdam’s population will be about 920,000.
Oldest neighborhood: around the Old Church.
New expansions: Plan Zuid (early 20th century), New West (after 1945), IJburg (from 1999) and the Zuidas.
Economy: from trade to tech and finance
The economy shifted from global trade in the 17th century to industry in the 19th century and to financial services and technology in the 21st century. Today, the Zuidas is a major business center.
Traffic and infrastructure
Central Station was opened in 1889. Water, rail and later subway connections determined its development. In 2018, the North/South Line opened.
FAQ about history Amsterdam
When was Amsterdam created
1275.
When did Amsterdam receive city rights
1306.
What Amsterdam used to be called
Amestelledamme.
When was the VOC founded
1602.
When did construction of the ring of canals begin
1613.
When did Amsterdam become capital
1814.
What is the oldest canal in Amsterdam
Oudezijds Voorburgwal.
How many canals does Amsterdam have
About 165.
How many kilometers of canals are there
About 100 kilometers.
How many bridges does Amsterdam have
More than 1,200.
How many residents will Amsterdam have in 2026
About 920,000.
What is Amsterdam known for
Canals, Golden Age, trade, museums and international culture.
