Amsterdam marks its 750th anniversary, commemorating its rich Middle Eastern cultural heritage
In the heart of Europe, Amsterdam, a city that has grown from a small seaside trading village into a global financial centre, is celebrating its 750th anniversary this October. With a rich history dating back to the New Stone Age, Amsterdam's charm lies in its diverse culture, vibrant food scene, and historical landmarks.
The city's roots can be traced back to a toll privilege dated October 27, 1275. Today, Amsterdam boasts more than 40 mosques, making Halal food widely available, and shisha bars are commonplace. One such establishment renowned for its baklava is Divan Pastanesi, reputedly Amsterdam's best baklava shop.
The city's culinary landscape is a testament to its multiculturality. A Beautiful Mess community cafe offers a diverse menu that includes spicy Iraqi chicken, vegan oyster mushroom shawarma, Eritrean-style roasted cauliflower, Ukrainian-inspired carrot and beetroot salad, and homemade saj with a range of dips. Koshari, a traditional Egyptian dish, is also on the menu, reflecting the city's diverse population.
Amsterdam's history is deeply intertwined with maritime trade. The National Maritime Museum (Het Scheepvaartmuseum) houses a tiny collection of nautical charts from the Gulf and a permanent display on how maritime trade shaped urban centers. The city's port, once a hub for tobacco, guns, and spices, can be traced back to the Waag bulwark, where these goods were weighed before entering and leaving the port.
The cityscape is dotted with windmills, eight of which survive in the Dutch capital. De Gooyer, the biggest windmill in the Netherlands, is a testament to Amsterdam's industrial past.
Amsterdam and Dubai, both global cities, share similarities in their growth from trading villages to financial centres. Javastraat, the core of Amsterdam's Arab neighbourhood, mirrors Dubai's bustling souks.
The Palestinian Film Festival (PFFA) will take place from October 9 to 12, adding another layer to Amsterdam's cultural calendar. Last Saturday, a time capsule containing predictions, poetry, portraits, a video, and a magazine about freedom and diversity was buried at Dam Square, symbolising the city's commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Dappermarkt, a century-old market in Amsterdam, offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant past and present. From its swampy mouth inhabited since the New Stone Age to its thriving multicultural community today, Amsterdam continues to evolve, embracing its rich history while forging a bright future.
