Country | Netherlands |
Population | 664311 |
Area | 324.14 km2 (125.15 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+1 (CET) |
Coordinates | 51.9225, 4.47917 |
Highest elevation | None |
City Gallery
City Description
Rotterdam, located in the South Holland province of the Netherlands, is a dynamic, bustling city known for its modern flair and maritime significance. As the second-largest city in the country after Amsterdam, Rotterdam boasts a population of approximately 655,468 as of 2022. The city is part of the Rotterdam–The Hague metropolitan area, the most populous in the Netherlands, housing around 2.7 million people, making it the 10th-largest metropolitan area in the EU.
Founded in 1270 when a dam was constructed on the Rotte River, Rotterdam was granted city rights in 1340 by William IV, Count of Holland. Its strategic location at the mouth of the Rhine–Meuse–Scheldt delta has long made it a critical hub for trade and logistics. The city’s port is Europe’s largest seaport, and Rotterdam’s port facilities play a pivotal role in global shipping and logistics.
Rotterdam’s geographical setting on the North Sea provides it with direct access to major European waterways, linking it seamlessly to the industrial heartlands of Western Europe, including Germany’s Ruhr region. This advantageous location has earned Rotterdam nicknames like “Gateway to Europe” and “Gateway to the World.”
The city’s modern architecture is a testament to its resilience and innovation. Following the devastating German bombing during World War II, which left much of the city center in ruins, Rotterdam reinvented itself with strikingly contemporary designs. Architects such as Rem Koolhaas, Piet Blom, and Ben van Berkel have shaped the city’s skyline with iconic buildings, including the Cube Houses and the Erasmus Bridge.
Culturally, Rotterdam is a melting pot with over 180 nationalities contributing to its vibrant and diverse community. The city’s cultural scene is rich, with numerous museums, theaters, and festivals. The Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra and the International Film Festival Rotterdam are just a couple of highlights. The city’s riverside location also offers scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.
Educationally, Rotterdam is home to the Erasmus University, named after the famous philosopher Erasmus of Rotterdam. The university plays a significant role in the city’s intellectual and cultural life.
Economically, Rotterdam remains a powerhouse. Besides its port, which is crucial for logistics, the city thrives in sectors such as maritime industries, trade, and high-tech innovation. The extensive distribution network involving rail, roads, and waterways underpins Rotterdam’s status as a major global trade hub.
Rotterdam’s blend of modernity and tradition, combined with its strategic location and economic prowess, makes it a standout city on the European and global stage.
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