A Dutch metropolis has been awarded the distinguished title of ‘European Metropolis of the Yr’.
It’s acquired canals, bikes and a museum filled with Van Gogh work. No, not Amsterdam, however the historic metropolis of Amersfoort.
No, we hadn’t heard of it earlier than both – however don’t let that put you off.
The town, positioned to the west of the Amsterdam, boasts an outdated city centre, with buildings courting again to medieval occasions.
Muurhuizen Road, an virtually round road, is claimed to be one of the stunning in your entire metropolis, and vacationers get pleasure from strolling alongside it, popping into the outlets and consuming at one of many eating places.
Just like the Dutch capital, Amersfoort additionally has a canal system, full with bridges and gates, which might be explored on a ship tour.
And, for artwork buffs, the town is residence to the second largest assortment of Van Gogh work. It’s additionally the delivery place of Neo-Plasticism artist, Piet Mondrian, and guests can head to the Mondriaanhuis, the birthplace and childhood residence of the painter.
If it’s views you’re after, the town has that too. The Lieve Vrouwe tower is all that’s left after the unique church was blown up by chance.
It’s simply 100m tall, however should you make the climb you’ll rewarded with beautiful views over the town.
Amersfoort was given the honour by The Academy of Urbanism in London, who visited the town to judge its sustainability, city planning, and administration.
It was additionally praised for the standard of life that residents can get pleasure from, in addition to how its character and heritage is maintained.
‘Amersfoort focuses on the wellbeing and happiness of its residents, from strikes to restrict automotive use to the availability of numerous and good high quality reasonably priced properties,’ the jury mentioned.
Amersfoort was shortlisted for the prize together with Estepona, in Spain’s Costa Del Sol, and Exeter, in Devon, England.
If you happen to’re eager to take a look at Amersfoort, it’s pretty straightforward to get to. You’ll have to both fly into Amsterdam Schiphol airport, or get the Eurostar to Amsterdam Centraal.
Trains run to Amersfoort from Amsterdam Centraal. There are about two quick trains each hour that may get you there in about half-hour.
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