Amsterdam, capital city of the Netherlands, is located in North Holland province. The city's eventful history began in the 13th century when residents on the banks of the River Amstel created a bridge across the large saltwater inlet. The mouth of the river Amstel formed a natural harbor making the city an important trade center.

17th century was Amsterdam's Golden Age when her ships sailed to North America, Indonesia, Brazil and Africa. Amsterdam's shipping network grew strong to lay the foundation for the Dutch colonies. It was in this century that Rembrandt painted as also the famed canals were expanded for development. Increasingly Amsterdam gained repute as a leading financial centre.

All this prosperity saw the city's culture blossom. In the 15th and 16th century only festivals were celebrated, but the later half of the 16th century saw organized contests for poetry and drama. The first theater was established in 1638 and ballet performances began as early as in 1642.

18th century saw French theatre gaining popularity. Italian and French operas started in 1677 with German operas being performed by the 18th century. The 19th century had vaudeville and musical shows as popular culture. 20th century of course popularized cinema, radio and television. Today Amsterdam remains a dominant European cultural phenomenon.