Geographical location

Netherlands is a state located in northwestern Europe. His total area amounts to 42 thousand sq. km. In the east the country borders Germany, in the south - With Belgium. In the north and west the country is washed by waters North Sea.

The name of this state translates as " low lands", more 40% its surface lies below sea level. The highest point in the country is a mountain Vaalserberch, whose height is 321 m. A lowest point located on 6.7 m below sea level.

In coastal areas, large areas are occupied" polders", which are artificially reclaimed areas of land crossed by a large number of dams, rivers and canals. Approx. 70% The country's territories are made up of anthropogenic landscapes; there are very few natural areas and they are under state protection.

Capital of the country is a city Amsterdam, But parliament and seat of government located in The Hague.

The country has temperate maritime climate, which is characterized by high humidity. Average January temperatures make up +1-+3°C, July - +16-+17°C. Precipitation falls annually 650-800 mm, Moreover, they are fairly evenly distributed across the seasons. In general, the climate of the Netherlands is quite warm. However, it can often blow here westerly winds, which lead to a sharp cooling even in the warmest months of the year.

Westerly winds from the North Sea make the winter weather quite mild and cool in the summer. In winter there are short periods with negative temperatures, which alternate with thaws. There are often fogs, sometimes falls in winter snow.

Visas, entry rules, customs rules

Kingdom of the Netherlands is one of the countries participating in the Schengen agreement. Citizens of Russia and the CIS for entry visa required.

Import and export of currencynot limited. When entering from non-EU countries, must be declared amounts exceeding 10 thousand euros.

Persons over 17 years old, arriving from countries outside the EU customs area, duty free may import small quantities into the country cigarettes, cigars, tobacco, alcoholic beverages, coffee or coffee extract, tea, perfumes, and also personal use goods.

Without appropriate permission prohibited to import to the territory of the country drugs and drug-containing drugs, medications, firearms and ammunition, explosives. The same goes for some food products, plants and soil, animals and birds(especially poultry from Southeast Asian countries), as well as haberdashery and souvenir products, which was made from endangered species of plants and animals.

To the territory of the European Union countries from May 1, 2009 prohibited to importproducts containing meat or milk. These also include sausage, canned food, lard and chocolates. Does not apply this ban on baby food and special medications, which are necessary for people with certain chronic diseases. But these products must weigh up to 2 kilograms and you need them pack carefully. Violators of this prohibition waiting confiscation of products and fine.

Plants, animals and plant products must be presented quarantine officials. Pets imported into the countrymust have vaccination certificate and veterinary certificate. However, such evidence must be issued no earlier than for 10 days before departure.

Medicines for personal use can be imported and without special permissions. However, for many drugs necessary availability of a prescription, which was issued by a doctor and certified by a notary.

It is prohibited to export from the country objects and things that are of historical or artistic value.

Population, political status

The country's population is approximately 15.6 million people. It is quite diverse in its ethnic composition: Dutch (81% ), Flemings (12% ), friezes (3% ), Germans (1,5% ), as well as many people from the country's former colonies. This country is one of the most densely populated in the world.

The Netherlands is constitutional monarchy. Head of State costs king or queen. Legislative branch represents bicameral parliament (Estates General). Administratively, the country's territory consists of 12 provinces, as well as groups Netherlands Antilles And Aruba island located in the Caribbean Sea.

State language is Dutch (Dutch), second official language is Frisian. In the country also very widespread have English, French and German languages.

What to see

Cities of the Netherlands are masterpieces of medieval architecture. One of the main calling cards of Holland can also be called mills, canals and flower plantations.

Amsterdam- This capital of the country. The name of this city translates as " dam on the Amstel river". Amsterdam is famous all over the world their channels, through which more than 600 bridges. The most beautiful bridges are considered Blauburg and Mahere Brug. Tourists should be sure to inspect city ​​from the water, this can be done on numerous excursion boats plying the canals.

All excursions usually start from the Central Station. Its red brick building in neo-Gothic style was built in the 19th century.

It separates the city itself from the old harbor of Hey. The streets and canals of the city radiate from the station. Main street is Damrak, along it you can get to the historical center of the city - " Grand Canal Quarter". It is surrounded by channels Single ("defensive"), Heirengracht ("gentlemen's channel"), Keizersgracht ("imperial"),Prinsengracht ("princes channel") and many others. All channels share the city on 90 islands.

Center " Grand Canal Quarter"is famous Dam Square. It is located on it Royal Palace building, built in XVII century. Royal family currently does not live in it, but the largest museum operates in the building.

At Dam Square can also be seen Freedom Monument related to 1956. It is interesting because at its base capsules are sealed with the soil of those countries in which the Dutch fought.

Nieuwe Kerk ("new church") was built in 1408 and was rebuilt many times after that. She is the coronation site of the Dutch monarchs. On the square there is a building of the famous Madame Tussauds museum.

You can see the building nearby Berlagi exchange. Wooden Münt Tower with a spire and chimes was built in 1620, in the Middle Ages it served as a mint. Amsterdam footstock is the zero sea level reference point for the entire world.

complex of buildings of the East India Company, Shipbuilders' House, which is one of the most interesting buildings in the city, Museum of Torture and Museum of Sex to Damrak. It is worth seeing the numerous picturesque residential buildings of the 16th-17th centuries.

There are a lot of churches in Amsterdam. Of these, it is especially worth highlighting the oldest church in the city -Gothic Oude Kerk, which was built in 1300. In it Organ concerts are held regularly.

Westerkerk Church, which dates back 1619, is largest Renaissance church in the Netherlands. She's famous Rembrandt's grave. The first Protestant church in the country became Südkerk("southern"), worth seeing Noorderkerk, and also Portuguese synagogue, built in 1675, which was once the largest in the world.

Amstelkring (XVII century.) considered one of the largest Catholic cathedrals in Europe, now in it the museum is open.

There are a lot of museums in the capital of the Netherlands. The largest art museum in the country and one of the best in Europe is Rijksmuseum. It presents the richest collection of Flemish paintings from the 15th to the 17th centuries. Dutch History Museum works in the east wing of the Rijksmuseum.

Also interesting: Stedelijk Museum of Contemporary Art, numerous Diamond Factory Museums, Heineken Brewing Company Museum, Amsterdam Historical Museum, famous Tropical Museum, Anne Frank Museum.

Van Gogh Museum has the world's largest collection of his works. Worth a visit Rembrandt Museum in the building XVII century. on Jodenbreustraat, Cat Cabinet, Tattoo Museum, Jewish Historical Museum in a combined building of 4 synagogues. Available in Amsterdam Museum of Hashish, Marijuana and Hemp on Udesijds Achterbuergwal, which is the only one in Europe.

Numerous tourists are also attracted by the famous " red light district", located opposite the Central Station.

Flower markets located along Single and Mint Square(Muntplein). Traditional shopping spots it is generally accepted areas of Kalverstraat, Nieuwe Wendijk, Rokin, Damstraat, Leidsestraat and Wijzelstraat, and also Jordan and Magna Plaza areas. The largest market in Europe counts market complex Zwarte Markt, located in 15 km north of the city.

Zaandam located in 20 km north of Amsterdam. This city is recommended to visit Peter I's house And open air architectural museum "Zaandam in the 17th century.".

Famous Alkmaar ("surrounded by water") lies north of Zaandam. It is the only city in the world, in which we have preserved to this day medieval cheese fairs and even guild "cheese porters". Narrow ones are interesting medieval streets, numerous city ​​canals, Cathedral of St. Lawrence And Gothic Town Hall. This city also has: museum complex Tsaans Chance, wonderful Cheese Museum, National Beer Museum in the old brewery building, Netherlands Kiln Museum and City Museum of History and Art.

West of the capital lies the city Haarlem. He from XI to XIII centuries. was the residence of the Dutch Counts Palatine. Here you can see a large number of historical and cultural monuments.

Located in the city center Grote Markt, which surrounded by picturesque medieval buildings. Here are also located: Town Hall, Sint-Bavo Church with the tomb of Frans Hals and the famous organ. There is an old one nearby Haarlem almshouse, now it houses the city Khalsa Museum. Quite interesting Episcopal Museum, Museum of Industrial Art in an 18th-century castle, Grote Kerk church (XV - XVI centuries.) and old " meat rows"related to XVII century.

City Hague is the seat of government, parliament and the royal court. Moreover, this third largest and one of the oldest cities in the country. However, it received city status only 1811.

Located in The Hague Peace Palace where he works International Court of Justice. The country's parliament is currently sitting in the ancient Binnenhof Castle, built in 1248. Around it lies the historical center of the city. In front of the castle, on the Plein square, you can see monument to William I of Orange.

The historical sights of this city can be called: Ridderhall tribunal building (XIII century.), Colonial Office, the oldest in the country City Passage, Ministry of Justice and De Witte Literary Club.

In the building of the medieval prison Gevagenport currently working Museum of the Inquisition.

Nearby is palace of the former governor of the Dutch possessions in Brazil - Mauritshuis. It now contains one of the best art galleries in the world - Royal Art Gallery.

On the Town Hall Square rise: Gothic Old Town Hall, Berlage exchange. Grote Kerk Church is the most famous cathedral in the city. She's interesting too coats of arms of the knights of the Golden Fleece, depicted on the pediment, and symbol of the city - bell with a stork image.

At the Koninklijk Palais Noordeinde located Queen's residence. In summer this palace is open to the public and the Queen lives in Huis ten Bosch Palace. Another attraction of the city can be called Madurodam Park. He is a very interesting open air museum, in which almost the entire country and all its monuments are presented to scale 1: 25 . The layouts are valid.

Worth a visit and ultra-modern Residence quarter, in the creation of which the best architects of the world took part.

Walloon Church was built in 1807 financed by Napoleon Bonaparte. Many tourists visit Spinoza house-museum, old Catholic church, unique Haagsche Hofje Museum of Candies and Caramels, Peace Palace.

Other attractions of the city are: Prince William V Art Gallery, Aquarium and Maritime Centre, International Press Museum, Postal Museum and Costume Museum.

Located near The Hague seaside resort of Schweningen, which is famous throughout the world, and ancient city of Delft. This city is the birthplace of the famous Dutch blue and white porcelain.

Among the main attractions of the city are the Renaissance Town Hall with a watchtower, the monastery of St. Agatha, the chapel of St. Hippolytus, the church of 1250 With " falling bell tower".

Tourists should also visit in this city Lambert van Merten National Museum And Gothic church Nieuwe Kerk which is interesting graves of members of the royal dynasty.

Delft Market Square, on which rises 109-meter bell tower of the Nieuwe Kerk, it is generally accepted the most beautiful square in the Netherlands.

Rotterdam is the largest port in Europe and the second largest city in the country. It is located on one of the northern branches of the vast Rhine delta - the river. Lek. This city was first mentioned in chronicles in 1238. And to 1340 Rotterdam was already considered one of the most significant European cities.

During World War II old town was almost completely destroyed, so there are almost no old monuments preserved here. But the restored modern Rotterdam also has very interesting architecture.

The best preserved area of ​​the Delft port is Delftshaven. There are many narrow streets, canals, ancient buildings and windmills.

The first European " skyscraper - Het Witte Heis. This building was built in 1898, its height is 45 meters. The territory of the old port was densely surrounded by new buildings.

Located in the city center Prince Hendrik Maritime Museum. Next to him rises bronze monument "Scream" ("Devastated city")in memory of the old city destroyed by the Nazis.

Nearby you can visit Historical museum in the 17th century palace, Kunsthal building, in which art exhibitions are heldXIX - XX centuries and famous Boijman van Beuningen Museum, which has the country's best collection of Flemish masters XV - XVI centuries.

You can visit City Cathedral St. Laurentskerk (XVI century.). In front of him is located monument to Erasmus of Rotterdam. Town Hall, built in 1920, is the largest in the country.

On the banks of the Meuse costs monument to Peter I, are also interesting Post and Exchange buildings. Rising above the city TV tower Euromast, whose height is 185 meters. Its rotating observation deck offers a magnificent panorama of the city and the huge port.

In the Kralingen quarter you can visit the magnificent Botanical Garden. In the area of ​​the business center there are modern high-rise buildings of banks and offices.

The city's museums include the Academy of Arts, the Museum of Ethnography, the Conservatory, the Museum of Entomology, the Historical Museum and the Rotterdam Zoo.

Utrecht represents ancient university town, which is located in the center of the country. He is interesting for his two-tier channels, which are connected by numerous bridges with adjacent houses. During the Middle Ages, these houses served as warehouses.

Nowadays, a large number of cafes and restaurants are located on the terraces of the first tier. And the canals are used mainly for pleasure walks.

The most famous landmark of the town is the oldest Gothic Cathedral of the country Domkerk, which has the tallest spire in the Netherlands.

Also worth the attention of tourists Town Hall, famous University, which operates with 17th century.

The most interesting museums can be called: Coin Museum, Art and Science Society Museum, Railway Museum, Central Museum (art collection beginning of the 17th century.), and also Museum of Christianity, which has the country's largest collection of medieval art.

Maastricht is one of the most ancient cities in the Netherlands and the administrative center of the province of Limburg. It is located in the south of the country, on the border with Belgium. The main attraction of the city are considered remnants of the Van du Moulin defensive line, including walls, bastions, underground mine galleries, etc.

Worth the attention of tourists and labyrinth of 20 thousand caves St. Petersburg. These caves were also used as casemates and warehouses during the city's many sieges.

Medieval ones are also interesting burgher houses "old town", narrow streets and bridges which are protected as architectural monuments. Here you can see the oldest city gate in the country related to 1299, Town Hall.The symbol of the city is considered to be Cathedral of Sint Servas (Sint-Servaskerk, VI century.). The most popular museums in the city can be called: Episcopal, Art and Antiquities and Art Museum Bonnefanten.

Onze-Liewe-Frauwe Church it is generally accepted the most beautiful Romanesque basilica in the country. It is located on the square of the same name.

Near Tilburg you can visit an interesting safari and amusement park "Efteling".

City Groningen located in the north of the Netherlands. It attracts many tourists with its churches: St. Martin (XIII - XVI centuries.) with tower ( XVI century.), Aa and Nieuwe Kerk, built in XVII century. Here you can see ruins of a Roman settlement. Considered one of the best in EuropeMaritime Museum Groningen and original Tobacco Museum. The city library houses Latin translation of the New Testament which was made Erasmus of Rotterdam and annotated Martin Luther.

Province of Friesland And Wadden Islands stretch along the northern coast of the country. They are interesting for their wild nature, dunes, numerous lakes, pine forests, seaside resorts. Throughout, the unique culture of the Frisian ethnic group living here has been preserved.

Provincial capital is a city Leeuwarden. Its main attractions can be called: ancient bastions, Town Hall, Palace of Justice.

IN estate of Maria Louise of Hesse-Kassel can be seen the best collection of porcelain and earthenware in the country.

Collections of the unique Frisian Museum talk about the artistic traditions and culture of this province. In the village of Wenkloster located a branch of this museum with an interesting collection of toys. In Dokkum located Museum of Frisian Folk Art, in Franeker you can see a unique planetarium (XVIII century.).

In Sneek tourists can visit Frisian Maritime Museum and excellent yacht club. In Collum many luxury houses in traditional style. There is also a majestic Town Hall of the 15th century.

De Kennermerdunen National Park ("Kennemer Dunes") is located on an area whose area exceeds more than 1000 ha natural dune area. It is located on the North Sea coast, being one of the few areas where natural vegetation has been preserved.

The largest national park in the Netherlands is De Hoge Veluwe. It contains one of the largest in Europe Sculpture Museum to Otterlo. It represents more 20 hectares masterpieces of the most famous European masters XX century, located outdoors. There is also the richest private art collection of the Kröller-Müller couple.

The country has a large number of medieval fortresses, palaces and castles. Ammersoen Fortress, built in XIV century, is famous for the collection of objects that were found during excavations in the fortress moat.

Middachten Castle was built in 1190 and was rebuilt in XVII century. It has been preserved entirely, along with all its furnishings.

Valkenburg was built on a rocky foundation in 1100. He interesting for the presence of an extensive system of underground passages that lead to a vast labyrinth of caves. Also worthy of mention are castles such as De Haar and B.

The territory of the country was inhabited during the last ice age, at that time there was a tundra with sparse vegetation. According to scientists, the oldest traces of human activity dated 1000 years. First Settlers were hunters and gatherers.

When did they arrive on the territory of modern Holland? Romans, she was inhabited by Germanic tribes: Tubants, caninefates and friezes. They settled there around 600 BC.Celtic tribes (Eburones and Menapii) inhabited the south of the country.

German tribes also settled here Batavians and Toxanders. Southern part of what is now the Netherlands during the Roman Empire there was occupied by the Romans. She became part of the provinceBelgica, and later - provinceLower Germany.

In the Middle Ages the Netherlands consisted of modern Belgium and the Netherlands, they included various counties, duchies and dioceses that were part of the Holy Roman Empire.

In the 16th century they represented a single state under Habsburg rule. Spread of Calvinism led to Counter-Reformation, which caused a split in the country. Spanish King Philip IItried to centralize the state. However, the consequence of his actions was revolt against Spanish rule. Headed it William I of Orange.

The independence of the state was proclaimedJuly 26, 1581. But other countries officially recognized it only after the endEighty Years' War (1568—1648 ). During the War of Independence began " Golden age» Netherlands. It represented a period of economic and cultural prosperity and saw everything XVII century.

Founder of the independent Netherlands it is generally accepted William I of Orange.

At the beginning of the 19th century, after the end of the French occupation, the country became monarchy, in which they ruled representatives of the House of Orange. Belgium V 1830 finally separated from the Netherlands and became an independent kingdom.

Luxembourg gained independence in 1890 year. IN 1848 year, the country, under pressure from liberal politicians, turned into parliamentary democracy with a constitutional monarch. This political system continues here to this day.

Netherlands remained neutral during the First World War. A during World War II the country has been for five years occupied by Germany. Rotterdam was bombed, the city center was almost completely destroyed. About fifty thousand Dutch Jews became victims of the Holocaust during the war.

After the end of the war The country was recovering quite quickly. This was greatly facilitated Marshall Plan, organized by the USA. This allowed the Netherlands to become a modern industrial country in a short time. Former colonies Indonesia and Suriname gained state independence. Mass immigration began from Indonesia, Turkey, Morocco, Suriname and the Antilles. This led to the Netherlands became a country with many cultures, the proportion of the Muslim population has increased significantly.

In the 60s and 70s last century in the country there were major social and cultural changes. Catholics and Protestants began to communicate with each other more. Rising living standards and the development of education have led to the fact that differences between classes have become less noticeable.

Women gained more economic rights, more and more often they began to occupy high positions in enterprises and in the government. The government of the country began pay great attention to environmental protection. The population of the Netherlands received broad social rights. One of the tallest in the worldpensions, unemployment and disability benefits.

March 25, 1957 country became one of the founders of the European Union. The Netherlands has also made a major contribution to European integration. But in June 2005 in the referendum on the European Constitution, more than half of the country's residents voted against its adoption. Netherlands steel the second country to reject the draft EU unified constitution.

Foreign trade

Main import items The Netherlands can be called cars, oil, clothing, iron and steel. The country also importsnon-ferrous metals, food products and various transport equipment.

Main export items countries are: chemical products, greenhouse vegetables, meat, flowers, natural gas and metal products.

Stores

Country stores usually work With 8.30 (9.00 ) to 17.30 (18.00 ). Once a week, more often on Mondays, They closed to 12.00-13.00 , A on Thursdays shops open to 21.00 . Saturdays grocery stores are open to 16.00 , A the rest are closing V 17.00 .

Only very few shops are open on Sunday, and also Monday morning.

As souvenirs tourists usually bring from the Netherlands mills in various types and forms, wooden shoes different sizes and colors that are one of the main symbols of Holland. Many people also buy cheese for which this country is famous. From here you can bring tulip bulbs, delicious chocolate, jewelry, crystal products and famous blue and white pottery from Delft.

Demography

Population density amounts to 395 people per square kilometer. The Netherlands stands on 15 place in terms of population density.

Average age of the population countries is 40.4 years, average age of men - 39.6 years, women - 41.2 year.

Population growth rate amounts to 0.412 % . According to this indicator, the country stands at 162 place in the world.

Population migration: 2.46 migrant /1,000 population, 33 place in the world.

Urbanization: urban population: 82 % of the total population, urbanization growth: annual figure 0.9 % .

Average life expectancy the country's population is 79.4 years, average life expectancy for men - 76.8 years, women - 82.14 year. According to this indicator, the country stands at 30 place in the world.

Industry

The country has a modern highly developed post-industrial economy. The most important industries of this country can be called the following: electronics, mechanical engineering, petrochemicals, shipbuilding, ferrous metallurgy, aircraft manufacturing, pulp and paper, furniture, textile industries, as well as beer and clothing production.

Heavy industries concentrated in coastal areas, especially in Rotterdam, as well as in IJmuiden, Dordrecht, Arnhem And Nijmegen. All these cities are located on navigable rivers or canals. Located on the sea coast wind farms. A fairly well-known industry, although it is small in scale, is diamond processing in Amsterdam.

Flora and fauna

Polders almost entirely used for agricultural purposes. They consist mainly of clay and peat. The flora and fauna of the Netherlands is quite scarce. In the southern and eastern regions countries are common sandy soils who are busy arable lands. In some places they still exist moorland And pine-oak-beech forests.

Southern Limburg plateau covered loess of aeolian origin. Common here fertile loamy soils which form the basis of agriculture.

Most of the country's wild animals have been driven out of their habitats by humans. There are quite a few in the country a large number of birds, especially waterfowl. Many rare animal species are protected in national parks and reserves.

Banks and money

Dutch banknotes / Currency converter

Official currency country is Euro, 1 euro is equal to 100 cents.

The National Bank will exchange guilders for euros free of charge until the end of 2012.

In circulation are banknotes in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros, as well as coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents.

Tourists can exchange currency at any bank, airport, hotel or train station. At night well less profitable. You can also do this at private exchange offices, but the rate there is less favorable and the commissions are higher. The most favorable exchange rate offered at bank branches and post offices. Exchange there is carried out at the official rate, the lowest commissions are charged.

Exchange currency, as well as cash traveler's checks and credit cards possible in offices G.W.K. (Central system of exchange offices). She is main financial institution of the country, which specializes in currency transactions.

Almost everywhere accepted for payment credit cards of the world's major systems. They can be cashed in almost all bank branches and in all GWK branches, including border checkpoints. Currency exchange using ISIC student cards or FIYTO youth cards produced excluding commissions.

The country's banks usually operate With 8.00 to 16.00 on weekdays, break- With 12.00 to 13.30 . Fridays some banks close one hour earlier. GWK offices are open from 8.00 to 20.00 , on Sunday- With 10.00 to 16.00 .

In the cities of the country there is a single urban transport system (GVB), which includes trams, trolleybuses and buses. Single trip ticket valid for one hour and costs 1.5 euros. It's more profitable to buymulti-use tickets.

It is acceptable to enter public transportthrough the back door. Most often through the front door you can come in only with multi-day passes, which are presented to the driver.

In Rotterdam and Amsterdam available metro. It costs travel no more expensive than in other modes of transport. Travel cards for all types of transportcan be bought at the station, in some bookstores, at the post office, at special GVB ticket offices, as well as from tram or bus drivers, but more expensive.

The country has enough Water transport is also widespread:pleasure boats, water taxi etc. But travel on them is more expensive, and they are designed, for the most part, for tourists.

In the Netherlands it is very very popular enjoy bicycles. Their number now even exceeds the number of inhabitants of the country. A separate place must be allocated for bicycle lanes on roads and city streets. Everywhere you can see special bicycle parking, sometimes several floors.

Bicycle also can be rented at special points.

Traffic in the country is on the right., the roads are of excellent quality. Cyclists have priority in the order of traffic on city streets.. The central strip of many streets is reserved for public transport. On many streets, especially tourist ones, it is almost impossible to find a free parking space.

Speed ​​limits on motorways 120 km/h, on a local highway - 100 km/h, within populated areas - 50 or even 30 km/h. Installed everywhere police radars.

Taxi can be picked up at a specialized parking lot or ordered by phone.

Tourists can rent a car at any hotel, airline office or specialized rental agency offices. Rental conditions are standard for all EU countries.

The rental price usually does not include mileage or gas, but does include insurance. Total length of roads amounts to 111,891 km.

Sufficiently developed and ocean shipping. Rotterdam is one of the largest seaports in the world in terms of cargo turnover.

Minerals

Main coal reservesconcentrated in the province of Limburg. Deposits of hard and brown coal were discovered here. Oil and gas fields found in the middle part of the country, near the Zuider Zee.

There are also oil and gas deposits within the North Sea shelf. Of the less important minerals mined in the Netherlands, we can highlight peat, table salt and kaolin.

Agriculture

In the Netherlands Agriculture is a significant sector of the economy. However, a very small percentage of the population is employed in this area. Near 80 % The Netherlands' agricultural exports are consumed by EU countries. In the structure of agricultural exports prevail vegetables and flowers, and also dairy products.

For agricultural land accounts for about 65 % territory of the country. Near 27 % of which are occupied arable land, 32 % — pastures And 9 % - forests. However, there is a constant reduction in the share of pastures. This is due to the expansion of housing construction.

In the Netherlands take very good care of the soil. The Netherlands is one of the first places in the use of mineral fertilizers.

Crop production presented, mostly, growing flowers, potatoes, sugar beets and grain crops. Important export item are greenhouse and canned vegetables high quality.

The country is located in fifth place in Europe for oil production And on the fourth -for cheese production. Particularly developed here pastoralism.

The country is located in first place in the world by area occupied greenhouses. Moreover, their area is increasing. Greenhouses are usually heated using local natural gas. Near 60%."

Officially in Holland Use of recreational drugs is permitted. There are special places for their sale and consumption. But hard drugs and chemicals prohibited, as in other countries.

Abortion is officially legal in the Netherlands in the first 24 weeks of pregnancy. In 2002 there was also euthanasia legalized, but it requires strict medical supervision.

On April 1, 2001, the Netherlands became the first country in the world to have same-sex marriage legalized.

The Dutch are very polite, reserved and tolerant of other people's opinions. Here It's customary to say hello to everyone, entering the room.

There are a very large number of animal activists in the country, That's why shouldn't be worn herethings made of natural fur or leather.

It's not customary to dance in restaurants, for this there are discos and dance halls. At the restaurant accepted. No vaccinations to enter the country not required.There are no additional health risks.

History, natural resources and tourism in the Netherlands

Introduction

1. General information about the country.

1.2. Political structure

1.3. Story

1.4. People.

1.5. Religion and languages

2. Natural resources.

2.1 Nature and environment of the Netherlands.

2.2. Climate.

2.3. Relief.

2.4. Flora world.

2.5. Animal world.

2.6. National parks and reserves in Aruba (Netherlands).

3. Economic resources.

3.1. Transport.

3.2. Accommodation facilities (hotels).

3.3. Entertainment industry (clubs, parties).

3.4. Other entertainment (concerts, festivals).

4. Cultural and historical resources.

4.1. Monuments of secular architecture.

4.2. Socio-cultural heritage (holidays and traditions).

4.3. Special facilities for food.

5. Software tourism resources.

5.1. Events (holidays).

5.2. Thematic resources (parks, etc., etc.).

6. Tourist formalities.

6.1. Visa.

6.2. Currency.

6.3. Customs.

7. Cities are tourist centers.

8. Map of the Netherlands.

Conclusion.

Bibliographic list.

Introduction

In the west of the Central European Plain, at the confluence of the Rhine, Meuse and Scheldt into the North Sea, there is a small state of the Netherlands, also known as “Holland”. These names are quite close in meaning: “Netherlands” - “low-lying country”, “Holland” - “land without a solid foundation”. The name "Holland" essentially refers only to the two western provinces (North and South Holland), which were the historical core of the state and still retain a leading role in its political, economic and cultural life. There is little justification for bringing this name to the entire country. In all government documents, only the name “Netherlands” is accepted, which does not cause any discrepancies!!!

The Netherlands is famous for its abundance of inland waters. The area of ​​the country, including the area of ​​all rivers, lakes and canals, is 41.2 thousand square meters. km., and without water areas - 36.9 thousand sq. km. This small territory is home to 14.56 million people. The borders of the Netherlands with Belgium and Germany run along plains and are almost never connected with natural boundaries. Ethnic and linguistic differences in the border areas are equally not pronounced. There are Flemish people on both sides of the Dutch-Belgian border, and small groups of Dutch and Frisians in northwestern Germany. The maritime borders of the Netherlands lie along the North Sea shelf. This shallow water basin, rich in oil and gas reserves, is divided between Denmark, Germany, Great Britain, France, the Netherlands and Belgium based on equal distances from the nearest coastal points. The Netherlands owns a significant area in the south and southwest of the shelf.
The Netherlands occupies an advantageous position at the crossroads of many European and intercontinental routes of communication. The country directly faces the North Sea, through which cargo and passenger ships sail between Europe and America. The central transport and geographical position of the Netherlands contributed to the development on its territory of such giant international industrial and transport complexes as Rotterdam and Amsterdam.

The purpose of this work is to examine the history, natural resources and tourism industry in the Netherlands.

The set goal led to the solution of the following tasks:

1. Consider general information about the country.

2. Consider the natural resources of the Netherlands.

3. Consider economic, cultural, historical and program tourism resources.

4. Consider travel formalities.

5. Consider the cities and tourist centers of the Netherlands.

6. Draw appropriate conclusions.

1. General information about the country.

1.1. Geographical location.

The Netherlands, or, unofficially, Holland, is a state in Western Europe, on the coast of the North Sea. Holland is only part of the country, now divided into two provinces. Despite this, this name has stuck in colloquial speech.

The name of the country (“Low Lands”) contains the main characteristic of its relief. About half of the territory (mainly in the western part) lies below sea level.

In the east, flat and gently undulating plains predominate, their height rarely reaching 50 m above sea level. In the south, the territory is crossed by the rivers Rhine, Meuse and Scheldt, forming a single delta that provides maritime transport with access to the interior of Europe. 1

A strip of sand dunes stretches along the coast, followed by vast lowlands protected from flooding by dams and dikes. In the sea, parallel to the coast, stretch the West Frisian Islands, representing an outer chain of dunes, partially submerged.

The name itself gives the most accurate idea of ​​the location of this country (“neder” - lower, low, “landen” - earth). The Kingdom of the Netherlands stretches along the coast of the North Sea and borders on the east with Germany and on the south with Belgium.

The Netherlands has become famous throughout the world for its tulips, mills and cheese. The country generously offers its residents and tourists a huge number of museums, parks, historical attractions, sandy beaches, canals, flower fields, restaurants and cafes for every taste.

The Netherlands is of particular interest to Russian tourists for its long-standing close historical and cultural ties with Russia, dating back to the times of Peter the Great, who literally fell in love with Holland, where he studied the art of shipbuilding.

1.2. Political structure

The form of government is a constitutional monarchy. The head of state is the king (queen). The monarch appoints ministers and judges, has the right to dissolve parliament, and commands the country's armed forces.
Legislative power is exercised by the monarch and parliament - the bicameral States General. In the provinces there are provincial states headed by commissioners.

The capital of the country is Amsterdam, the seat of parliament and government is the city of The Hague. Royal Family Day is considered to be April 30, the birthday of Beatrix's mother, Queen Juliana. 2

1.3. Story

The name Netherlands translates as lowland. It first appeared in the XIV-XV centuries. to designate the lands near the North Sea, today included in: Holland, Belgium and Northern France, in the lower reaches of the rivers Rhine, Meuse and Scheldt. Holland (formerly one of the counties that occupied part of the modern territory of the Netherlands) - means "wooded country", from the Old Frisian holt ("tree") and land ("country, land"). 3

The territory of the Netherlands was inhabited already in the Neolithic period. In the second half of the 1st millennium BC. e. Here lived mainly Celtic tribes, displaced by the Germans by the beginning of our era (Batavians, Frisians, Hamavians, Canninefates).

In the 1st century BC e. part of the territory of the Netherlands was conquered by the Romans, which accelerated the cultural development of local tribes.

In III-IV AD. e. The Franks (in the south) and Saxons (in the east) settled in the Netherlands; the Frisians occupied the north. With the formation of the Frankish state (5th century), the territory of the Netherlands became part of it. Among the tribes inhabiting the territory of the Netherlands, feudal orders and Christianity were forcibly imposed.

According to the Treaty of Verdun (843), the territory of the Netherlands became part of the possessions of Lothair I, according to the Treaty of Mersen (870) - into the East Frankish Kingdom. 4

In the X-XI centuries. A number of feudal estates were formed on the territory of the Netherlands (counties of Holland, Geldernidr.), formally connected by vassal relations with the “Holy Roman Empire”.

From the 12th century urban development begins. In the economy, along with handicraft production in the XIII - XIV centuries. The importance of fishing and shipping is increasing. Already by the 13th century. a system of dams and dikes is being created, which made it possible to develop the low-lying areas of the country that were swampy or flooded during floods (the name of the country literally translated from Dutch means “lower land”).

The main economic rivals of this period were the bishopric of Utrecht and the counties of Holland and Geldern. As a result, Geldern achieved dominance.

In the second half of the 13th century. The process of centralization of the country begins. The importance of Holland increased (especially under Floris V, reigned 1256-1296) and the counts of the Gennegau dynasty Avenach (1299-1354). Holland and Gennegau are united, West Friesland (1287) and most of Zealand (1323) are added. The Avens competed with the Counts of Flanders Dampierres, allies of France, and oriented towards an alliance with England. This involved Holland in the Hundred Years' War (1337-1453). 5

In the 14th century, in conditions of heightened social tension in Holland, Zeeland, and Geldern, regularly functioning class representation arose - the states.

In 1433, weakened by internal strife, Holland, and then a number of other feudal principalities of the Netherlands, were captured by the Dukes of Burgundy and became part of their empire. With its collapse, the Netherlands found themselves subordinate to the Habsburgs (1482), who completed in the 16th century, under Charles V, the annexation of those regions that had previously remained independent (Utrecht, Geldernidr.).

In 1548, the Habsburgs included all annexed territories into a complex of lands of 17 provinces called the Netherlands.

In 1556, after the division of the empire of Charles V, the Netherlands found themselves under Spanish rule.

In 1566, the bourgeois revolution that began was closely intertwined with the war of liberation against Spanish rule and took place under the banner of Calvinism (named after Calvin, one of the leaders of the Reformation).

In 1572-1575. As a result of the uprising, the Spaniards were expelled from the territory of the Netherlands.

In 1579, a political union of the northern provinces - the Union of Utrecht - laid the legal basis for the existence of an independent republic in the north of the Netherlands. In the south, the anti-Spanish movement was defeated.

In 1609, the protracted struggle for independence ended with the so-called. The twelve-year truce, by which Spain was forced to recognize the independence of the republic. The Netherlands became the first country where a victorious bourgeois revolution took place and where the first bourgeois republic in history arose. 6

In the 17th century The rapid economic development of the country and the growth of trade lead to the fact that navigation and shipbuilding are of great importance. Merchant fleet of the United Provinces in the middle of the 17th century. was almost twice as large as the fleets of England and France combined and played a primary role in trade in the 17th century. The Netherlands, pushing out the Portuguese and Spaniards, are expanding colonial expansion in Southeast Asia (Malay Archipelago, Malacca, Ceylon, Guiana, Lesser Antilles, etc.).

In 1602, the East India Company was founded, which played a huge role in the exploitation of the colonies and trade in goods delivered from there.

In 1621 the West India Company was founded. Amsterdam becomes the most important economic center of the country (there were trade and stock exchanges here, and a deposit bank was founded in 1609. 7

The supreme power in the Republic belonged to the States General (in which delegates from the states of the 7 provinces sat) and the Council of State. Along with these republican institutions, such a relic of the feudal monarchy was preserved as the position of provincial stadhauder (governor). The state leaders of most provinces were the princes of the House of Orange, and they were also entrusted with command of the army.

In 1621, the war with Spain resumed, which overlapped with the all-European Thirty Years' War (1618-1648).

In 1648, the Peace of Westphalia finally recognized the independence of the Republic of the United Provinces.

In 1650, the party of the big Dutch bourgeoisie, led by Jan de Witt, managed to completely seize power in the country and abolish the position of stadtholder.

In the 1650s. England begins wars with the Netherlands for colonial, commercial and maritime dominance. The result of these wars was the weakening of the military and political power of the Netherlands and the limitation of their trade and colonial expansion. This was also facilitated by the wars with France at the end of the 17th century, in which the Netherlands acted in coalitions with other European powers. 8

In 1672, amid military failures and popular uprisings, the “Orangeists” restored the power of the state leader. Stathouder William III of Orange, who became the English king in 1689 and thus implemented the Anglo-Dutch Union (1689-1702), pursued a pro-English policy. Despite the fact that after his death the position of stadtholder was again abolished by the States General, in the 18th century. There was a decline in the development of trade and industry in the Netherlands.

In the 18th century in the context of military defeats (1747-1748 - the War of the Austrian Succession, 1780-1784 - a new war with Great Britain), the position of stadtholder was restored (1747). This was William V (1766-1795). After William V drew the Netherlands into the First Anti-French Coalition in 1793, revolutionary France declared war on the Netherlands. The entry of French troops into the Netherlands in 1795 marked the end of the Republic of the United Provinces. 9

In 1795-1813, during the period of French domination, the Batavian Republic, dependent on France, was first organized, and then (1806, after the proclamation of the French Empire) the Kingdom of Holland was created, led by the brother of Napoleon I - Louis Bonaparte. During these years, bourgeois reforms were carried out: the abolition of almost all feudal rights and obligations, the elimination of the guild system, the centralization of management, the introduction of a unified tax system, a secular school, and civil and criminal codes.

In 1814-1815, after the expulsion of the French. The Congress of Vienna forcibly united the Netherlands and Belgium into a single Kingdom of the Netherlands.

In 1830, Belgium separated from the Netherlands as a result of a revolution.

In 1831-1833 In the war against Belgium, the Netherlands tried unsuccessfully to restore their previous position. Relations with independent Belgium were settled only in 1839.

In 1824, the Netherlands Trading Company was created, which received the exclusive right to export colonial goods (coffee, sugar, indigo, spices) from Indonesia.

In 1839 the first railway was built.

In 1848, a new constitution was adopted, which established the responsibility of the government to the Estates General, introduced direct elections to the lower house and elections of members of the upper house by the provincial states. At this time, the rapid growth of industry continues.

In the 1860-80s. The state takes over the construction of railways, the Amsterdam-North Sea canal is built, and the New Rotterdam-North Sea waterway opens. Rotterdam is turning into the most important transit port and sea gate for Germany.

In the 1870s. - early 20th century As a result of the industrial revolution, the most important industries - shipbuilding, textiles and food - were modernized. Monopolies appear: the Royal Oil Company for the exploitation of oil sources in the Netherlands Indies, which merged in 1907 with the English oil company Shell into the international concern Royal Dutch Shell; Philips company (production of electric lamps, etc.). Agriculture begins to focus on exports, and a dairy and cheese industry is created. Exports during this time increase 14 times, imports 9 times, transit 13 times. The length of railways increased threefold, foreign investment in the economy, for example, in 1907 reached a gigantic amount of three billion guilders. 10

In 1887, a new constitution was adopted, which liberalized the property voting qualification.

At the beginning of the 20th century. The first trade unions and associations of workers arise, fighting for their economic rights.

During the First World War, the Netherlands remained neutral, preferring to provide industrial supplies to the warring countries. However, in 1916-1919. As a result of the blockade and hostilities, maritime traffic ceased, ties with Indonesia were interrupted, the cost of living in the Netherlands almost doubled, and cards were introduced for basic necessities. This period was marked by strikes of miners, textile workers, dockers, and sailors. In July 1917 A "potato riot" broke out in Amsterdam.

In the post-war period, in conditions of a stabilized economic situation, new industries emerged (production of radio equipment, oil refining, etc.), the “General Union for the Production of Artificial Silk” (1927), the Anglo-Dutch margarine concern “Unilever” were formed, and work began on draining the Zuider -Zee (1920). 11

In the 1930s against the background of the global economic crisis, which also affected the Netherlands, exports and imports decreased by 2 times, the guilder was devalued by 20%.

With the outbreak of World War II, the government of the Netherlands declared neutrality, but on May 10, 1940, Nazi Germany attacked the Netherlands and on May 14 the country was forced to capitulate. Queen Wilhelmina and the government emigrated to Great Britain. Nazi administration was introduced in the occupied Netherlands, headed by Reich Commissioner A. Seys-Inquart.

In 1945, Allied forces liberate the Netherlands.

In 1948, the unification of the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg into the Benelux customs union, which began in 1944, was completed.

After World War II, the Dutch colonial empire began to disintegrate. In August 1945, Indonesia declared independence. The Netherlands, with the support of the USA and England, tried to restore their dominance, but failed. In 1947, under the Lingajad Agreement, the Netherlands recognized the government of the Indonesian Republic. Created by the decision of the Round Table Conference of 1949, the Netherlands-Indonesian Union was dissolved by Indonesia in 1954. By 1974, Suriname (Netherlands Guiana) and the Netherlands Antilles remained part of the colonial possessions of the Netherlands. 12

In the post-war years, the Netherlands quickly reached its previous level of production, foreign trade was reoriented towards Western European countries. The government is pursuing a protectionist policy towards the largest monopolies, encouraging their development: Unilever, Philips, Royal Dutch Shell.

In 1949, the Netherlands joins NATO. Foreign military bases are appearing on the territory of the country.

In 1954, the Netherlands joins NATO.

In 1958, the economic union of the Benelux countries was created.

In 1975, Netherlands Guinea became an independent state - the Republic of Suriname.

In 1980, her daughter Beatrice became Queen of the Netherlands after Juliana's abdication. 14

1.4. People.

The Netherlands has a population of about 15.5 million people. 80% of the population is concentrated in cities, the majority in the industrial region of the Randstad, which includes Amsterdam, Haarlem, Leiden, The Hague, Delft, Rotterdam and Utrecht. The population density in the Netherlands is one of the highest in Europe: it reaches 463 people per 1 sq. km. Ethnic groups: besides the Dutch, 600 thousand Frisians, 150 thousand Surinamese, 220 thousand Turks, 165 thousand Moroccans, 20 thousand Belgians, about 50 thousand British and Germans. The official language is Dutch (Dutch). 15

1.5. Religion and languages

Main religions: Catholicism, Protestantism.

The royal family and about 20% of the population of the Netherlands consider themselves Protestants (Calvinists). More than 25% of the population, mainly living in the southeastern provinces of the Netherlands, belong to the Roman Catholic Church.

Religious differences have a spatial and geographical expression: mostly Catholics live in the south of the country, and Protestants live in the southwest and northeast. Officially, freedom of conscience was proclaimed in 1795, but in fact the Dutch Reformed Church remained an important political force throughout the 19th century. Religious strife still affects political parties, schools, trade union movements, employers' unions and newspapers. Radio and television stations, sports associations and recreation clubs are organized on an ideological or religious basis. In the 20th century the number of mixed marriages between people of different religions, contrary to expectations, has not increased, but decreased, and even dating and spending time together often depend on religious beliefs.
A separate group is made up of that part of the population that stands apart from religious associations (especially those sharing socialist or liberal views). 16

The official language is Dutch, but approximately 90% of the population speaks Papiamento, a dialect that is a mixture of Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch and English. More often called Dutch, and historically - Flemish. It belongs to the Germanic language group. In the northern province of Friesland, the Frisian language, very similar to Dutch, is also widespread. Spanish and English are widely used, especially in Willemstad.

In addition, English, French and German are well understood in Holland. Literally the entire population of the country speaks English.

1 Maksakovsky V.P. Geographical picture of the world. – Yaroslavl: - 1995.

2 The whole world: countries, flags, coats of arms. - Minsk: Harvest, 1999.

3 Busygin A.V., “The Netherlands”, Mysl, Moscow 1988.

4 Brief geographical reference book “Countries and Peoples”. M.: - 1992

6 Popular scientific geographical and ethnographic publication “Countries and Peoples”, M.: - 1992.

7 Maksakovsky V.P. Geographical picture of the world. – Yaroslavl: - 1995.

8 Popular scientific geographical and ethnographic publication “Countries and Peoples”, M.: - 1992.

9 Busygin A.V., “The Netherlands”, Mysl, Moscow 1988.

10 Brief geographical reference book “Countries and Peoples”, M.: - 1992.

11 Great Soviet Encyclopedia.

12 Small Atlas of the World 1997

13 Busygin A.V. The Victorious Sea: about the Dutch and Holland. - M: Mysl, 1990.

14 Great Soviet Encyclopedia.

15 The whole world: countries, flags, coats of arms. - Minsk: Harvest, 1999.

16 Brief geographical reference book “Countries and Peoples”. M.: - 1992

2. Natural resources.

2.1 Nature and environment of the Netherlands.

The Dutch population's interest in nature and the environment began to emerge in the seventies. Environmental consciousness received a strong impetus with the publication of the Club of Rome report entitled “The Limits to Growth.” In particular, it predicted the depletion of oil and gas resources. This report has had a major impact on the way we manage our energy needs today and how we think about maintaining a balance between human activity and the environment.

In a densely populated country like the Netherlands, it is very important to protect special natural areas. Therefore, the state buys and manages especially valuable natural areas. In addition, it provides financial assistance to private entities for the acquisition and management of such zones. More and more farmers, individually and in groups, are entering into agreements with the state. They undertake conservation responsibilities on their own land or on land managed by a conservation organization. By adopting the environmental management plan of the Ministry of Agriculture, Environment and Food Control in 1990, the government demonstrated its determination to give nature back where it belongs. Of great importance in this case is the Basic Ecological Structure, a network of natural zones connected to one another. This network of natural areas should provide guarantees for the existence of plants and animals in the future. The goal for 2018 is to achieve a total area of ​​natural areas of 700 thousand hectares (NB: the total area of ​​the Netherlands is 41,528 sq. km). 1

The Netherlands currently has 19 different national parks, from the water-rich Biesbosch to the sand dunes of Loonse en Drunense duinen. One of the West Frisian islands, Schiermonnikoog, occupies a special place among national parks. The oldest national parks are Hoge Veluwe and Veluwezoom. 2

Due to increasing population density, strong industrialization, the growth of automobiles and the intensification of agriculture, including horticulture, environmental problems are more acute in the Netherlands than in other European countries. Most of these problems are solved by technical means, the use of which is at a higher level than the European Union (EU) average. Thanks to environmental protection policies, the load on the environmental sphere is either reduced (this concerns air, water and soil pollution) or stabilized (regarding the greenhouse effect and noise levels). Increasingly, we have to admit that environmental pollution is not a problem of just one country. Large European rivers carry pollutants from other European countries in their waters, and air pollution does not stop at national borders. Some problems related to air purity are even worldwide in scope, such as the destruction of the ozone layer and the greenhouse effect. Therefore, pan-European policies are playing an increasingly important role in solving large-scale environmental problems.

2.2. Climate.

The climate in the Netherlands is temperate - maritime, with pleasant summers and mild winters. Guests of this country should be aware of the possibility of short-term precipitation and do not forget to take an umbrella and raincoat with them. Sometimes winter can give you dry cold and sun, but such weather always alternates with rainy and foggy periods. In summer, sunny weather is not guaranteed, but it can be hot. Temperature depends on location above sea level. 3

2.3. Relief.

Currently, more than half of the country’s territory (33.9 thousand sq. km) is located below sea level, including almost all of the western lands - from the province of Zealand in the southwest to the province of Groningen in the northeast. The Dutch began to recapture most of them from the sea back in the 13th century. and managed to turn it into productive arable land. Areas of swamps and shallow waters were fenced off with dams, the water was pumped out first using the power of windmills, and later by steam and electric pumps. The levels of the country's large rivers in their lower reaches are often located higher than the surrounding interfluves, composed of loose sediments, and the natural protection against floods are bank embankments, which are strengthened with dams. From a bird's eye view, the drained areas, called polders, are a complex mosaic with numerous ditches and channels separating the fields and providing drainage. 4

In 1927, a large hydraulic engineering project to drain the Zuider Zee Bay began in the Netherlands. By 1932, the construction of the main dam, 29 km long, was completed, which crossed this bay in the area between the provinces of North Holland and Friesland. Over the next five years, the freshwater lake IJsselmeer formed above this dam, which was planned to be drained. First of all, the Wieringermeer polder was created in the north-west, then the Urkerland in the north-east. The territories of Eastern and Southern Flevoland were drained in the same way. In the late 1980s, the drainage of Markerward was completed. Once the project is fully completed, over 60% of the original area of ​​the IJsselmeer will be reclaimed from the sea. 5

Another project, called "Delta", completed in 1986, was intended mainly to protect the outer parts of the Rhine-Meuse delta with its many islands from flooding. This project acquired particular significance after the disaster of 1953, when during a storm in the North Sea the coastal dikes were destroyed and most of the deltaic lowlands were flooded. During the implementation of the project, all branches of the delta were blocked by dams that connected the islands. The only exception was the Eastern Scheldt branch, along which the sea route to the port of Antwerp (Belgium) passes. Currently, the Netherlands is considering a project to build dams between the West Frisian Islands, which border the northern coast of the country. At the same time, the shallow Wadden Sea (Wadden Sea), stretching between these islands and the mainland, will also be drained. 6

In the 1990s, the strategy of hydraulic engineering and reclamation work, which had a thousand-year history, changed significantly. Now it is planned to transform about 240 thousand hectares, or approximately 1/10 of all agricultural land in the country, into forests, meadows and lakes in order to protect the environment. 7

A significant part of the Netherlands is located above sea level. These are sandy coastal dunes, flat and slightly hilly plains mainly in the east and south of the country, as well as a chalk plateau dissected by deep river valleys in the extreme southeast. Here is the highest point of the country, Mount Walserberg (321 m above sea level).

2.4. Flora world.

In the coastal zone, fertile silty soils of marshes (polders) are developed, along the river valleys - alluvial-meadow soils. More than 70% of the country is occupied by cultural landscapes (settlements, cultivated meadows, arable lands, etc.). Characterized by an abundance of berry bushes and flowering plants. Oak and birch forests grow on sandy hills, alternating with heather heaths and swamps. On the heathland there are thickets of shrubs (gorse, juniper, broom).

Forests (oak, beech, ash with an admixture of yew) are represented by individual groves and cover (together with planted forests and roadside shelterbelts) no more than 7% of the Netherlands. In sandy areas there are heather heaths with bushes, on the dunes there are pine forests and sea buckthorn thickets, and along the banks of branches of large rivers there are willow forests. The Netherlands is called the “glass garden of Europe”: more than 800 species of tulips, asters, and hyacinths are grown in greenhouses here. 8

2.5. Animal world.

The fauna of the Netherlands is poor. Wild rabbits, squirrel, hare, marten, ferret, and roe deer are common. There are about 180 bird species in the country. In the Rhine and Meuse delta there are protected areas for mass wintering of waterfowl (geese, geese, gulls, waders, etc.). The North Sea is rich in fish (herring, mackerel, cod). There are 8 nature reserves in the country. 9

2.6. National parks and reserves in Aruba (Netherlands).

Even on the map you can see that Aruba is a tiny island. But, nevertheless, here, on this piece of land, almost 20% of the territory is given over to the environmental protection zone. The real jewel of the island is Arikok National Park, which occupies a huge area by local standards on the northern, windward coast, around the Arikok and Hamanota mountains. Within the park you can find a huge range of natural and historical attractions - Arawak petroglyphs in Fontaine Cave, Dutch colonial settlements in Masiduri, an old plantation building in Prince Valley and gold mine ruins in Miralamar. Along the slopes of Hamanota and Arikoka there is a whole network of beautiful walking trails, going right through thickets of unusual plants, such as kwihi and divi-divi trees, and beautiful landscapes. The park has perhaps the most diverse animal community on the island. 10

Geographical location of the Netherlands.
Climate and nature of the Netherlands.

NETHERLANDS, Kingdom of the Netherlands (Koninkrijk der Nederlanden) (unofficial name Holland), a state in Western Europe. Borders with Belgium and Germany. Area 41.5 thousand km2. Population 16.15 million people (2003). The capital is Amsterdam. The Hague is the seat of government. Large cities: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, Eindhoven, Groningen.

The lowest country in Europe, in all languages ​​it is called the “low lands”. The mainland of the country is a flat, low-lying plain. OK. 40% ter. lies below ur. m. (separated from the sea by dunes, dams and dikes, turned into polders) and is under constant threat of floods. The shores of the North Sea in the north of the country are indented by shallow bays (IJsselmeer, etc.), along the coast there is a group of West Frisian islands. The western coast is leveled, sandy, in the southwest there is a common delta pp. Rhine, Meuse, Scheldt. In the southeast are the spurs of the Ardennes (up to 321 m high). The climate is temperate maritime. The rivers are deep, many of them are navigable and connected by canals. OK. 70% ter. The Netherlands - cultural landscapes (settlements, arable lands, cultivated meadows). Broad-leaved and pine (mostly planted) forests occupy 8% of the territory. Along the coast and in the east there are heather heaths and sea buckthorn thickets.

History of the Netherlands.

The modern Netherlands are the northern provinces of the historical Netherlands, which broke away as a result of the struggle against the rule of the Spanish Habsburgs. In 1579, seven provinces concluded the Union of Utrecht, in which they agreed on the future federal political structure of the country. The core of the anti-Spanish resistance was the province of Holland. The Republic of the United Provinces, which soon formed as a result of the Dutch Revolution, was often informally called Holland. It was the first republic in Europe in modern times. Legislative power belonged to the Estates General. At the head of the country was a Stathouder - from the House of Orange, since Prince William of Orange stood at the head of the anti-Spanish armies. William III of Orange (1650-1792) became the last stadtholder. The Republic of the United Provinces achieved great success in shipbuilding and traded with all of Europe. The Dutch West India Company, having received from the Republic a monopoly right of trade and colonization in America and West Africa, seized part of the territory of Brazil, a number of islands of the West Indies, and part of the east coast of North America, where the city of New Amsterdam (now New York) was founded. A number of company strongholds on the west coast of Africa became bases for the Dutch slave trade. Holland even traded with Japan, which was closed to all Europeans. It was in Holland that Tsar Peter I came to study ship craftsmanship. But the Dutch were unable to resist such strong powers as England and Portugal and lost a significant part of their possessions by the mid-18th century. In 1795, the country was captured by revolutionary France, and the dependent kingdom of Holland was formed here. After the overthrow of Napoleon in 1815, Holland was transformed into the Kingdom of the Netherlands, but only partially restored its economic potential.

The Netherlands did not participate in the First World War; during the Second World War it was occupied by Germany in 1940-1945. In the post-war years, the country lost all its colonies (with the exception of the Antilles) and nevertheless remained one of the most stable and prosperous states in the world. The head of state is Queen Beatrix, who ascended the throne on April 30, 1980. In 1980, Willem Alexander, Queen Beatrix's eldest son, was officially proclaimed Crown Prince.

The Netherlands is a member of the EU, Benelux, and NATO. Modern Dutch society is characterized by increased tolerance towards “minorities”; the Netherlands was the first European country to legalize drugs and euthanasia.

Netherlands - general information about the country

Country name: Netherlands (Kingdom of the Netherlands, Holland).

Geographical location: The state of the Netherlands is located on the continent of Eurasia, in northwestern Europe. From the west and north it is washed by the North Sea (the length of the coastline is 451 km), borders on Germany (577 km) and Belgium (450 km).

Territory area: 41.5 thousand km².

Capital: Amsterdam (743.4 thousand inhabitants).

Political structure: The Kingdom of the Netherlands is a constitutional monarchy with a democratic parliamentary system. The head of state is Queen Beatrix, the prime minister is Mark Rutte. The party-political system of the Netherlands is characterized by a high degree of stability and consensus. There are 16 large parties; 7 of them have been represented in parliament at least once in the last 20 years.

Main parties of the Netherlands:

• Christian Democratic Appeal
• Labor Party
• Socialist Party
• People's Party for Freedom and Democracy
• Freedom Party
• Green Left
• Christian Union
• Democrats 66
• Animal Welfare Party
• Reformist Party
• Pride of the Netherlands

Administrative division: In terms of the form of state-territorial structure, the Netherlands is a decentralized unitary state. Power is distributed across three administrative levels: state, provinces and municipalities. The state does the work at the national level. Provinces and municipalities are decentralized units of government.

The Netherlands is divided into 12 provinces: Drenthe, Flevoland, Friesland, Gelderland, Groningen, Limburg, North Brabant, North Holland, Over IJssel, Utrecht, Zeeland, South Holland. The functions of the provincial authorities include environmental protection, spatial planning, energy supply, social security, sports and culture.

Leadership in each province is carried out by the provincial states, the college of deputies of the provincial states and the royal commissioner. electoral system.

There are 478 municipalities in the Netherlands. Their number is decreasing as the state seeks to increase the efficiency of administrative management through the reorganization of municipalities, most often a simple merger.

In the Caribbean Sea, north of Venezuela, the Netherlands Antilles are located, which includes the islands of Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, St. Eustatius and parts of the island of Saint Martin. the total territory is 800 km², the population is 194 thousand people. The official language is Dutch. The administrative center is Willemstad.

General characteristics of the country

Physiographic characteristics

Climate: The climate is temperate, maritime, characterized by cool summers and fairly warm winters. The average temperature in July is 16-17°C in January - about 2°C on the coast and a little colder inland. In winter, when anticyclones invade from Eastern Europe, temperatures drop below 0°C, snow falls, and canals and lakes become covered with ice. Average annual precipitation is 80 centimeters, but in the interior provinces it is slightly less.

Vegetation: Forests cover 7.6% of the country's territory. On the slopes of the valleys there are beech, hornbeam, oak, mixed with ash, white poplar, and elm. In the humid climate and flat, low-lying terrain in the Netherlands, favorable conditions existed for the formation of swamps. Characterized by an abundance of berry bushes and flowering plants. Oak and birch forests grow on sandy hills, alternating with heather heaths and swamps. On the heathland there are thickets of shrubs (gorse, broom, juniper).

Fauna: In the process of human development of the territory of the Netherlands, many species of wild animals were forced out of their habitats. However, the country is home to many birds, especially waterfowl. Many rare animal species are protected in national parks and reserves. Mainly those species of wild animals that live in damp meadows, reservoirs and canals have been preserved. There are about 180 bird species in the Netherlands. In the north of the country, on the shallows of the Wadden Sea, separating the West Frisian Islands from the mainland, white-fronted geese, short-billed bean gooses, barnacle geese, a lot of gulls and waders winter. It is also home to the southernmost population of eiders. An abundance of lapwings and godwits is characteristic of the marches. On the coast itself, large curlews, herbals, and turukhtans are common. The national bird of the Netherlands is the spoonbill. The Rhine, Meuse and Scheldt delta is known as a wintering and resting place for migratory birds. Thickets of reeds along the channels attract gray geese, as well as teal, pintails, curlews, and snipe for wintering. Breeding species include Reed Harrier, Short-eared Owl, Rail, Crake, Whiskered Tit and Bittern. Also in the delta region, muskrats have widely settled along the overgrown shores of small bays. The northern coast of the Netherlands is home to seals, the fishing of which is limited, and in some areas completely prohibited. In large forests there are wood mice, squirrels, rabbits, roe deer, as well as representatives of the mustelid family. Heather heaths are characterized by grouse and large crowns, and coastal dunes are characterized by wild crumbs. The North Sea is rich in fish - cod, herring.

Soil: In the north and east, derk-pale podzolic soils developed on sandy deposits are common. These soils are characterized by a humus horizon up to 20 cm thick with a humus content of more than 5%.

Natural resources: The main resources of the Netherlands are natural gas, oil, salt, sand, gravel, and agricultural land.

Rotterdam has the largest port in Europe, with the rivers Meuse and Rhine providing excellent access to the hinterland, reaching upstream to Basel, Switzerland, and into France. The port's main activities are petrochemical industries and general cargo handling and transhipment. The harbor functions as an important transit point for bulk materials and between the European continent and abroad. From Rotterdam, goods are transported by ship, river barge, train or road.

The highly mechanized agricultural sector employs 4% of the workforce but provides large surpluses for the food processing industry and for export. The Dutch rank third worldwide in the value of agricultural exports, behind the United States and France, with exports earning $55 billion annually. A significant portion of Dutch agricultural exports are obtained from new cut plants, flowers, and bulbs, with the Netherlands exporting two-thirds of the world's total. The Netherlands also exports a quarter of the world's tomatoes, and one third of the world's exports of chilli peppers and cucumbers.

The Dutch economy is aimed at foreign markets. The share of exports in the Dutch economy is 51% and is the largest among European countries. Most exporters operate in wholesale trade, industry and transport. The main specialization of Dutch exporters is raw materials and high-intensity products (chemistry, food industry, agriculture and petroleum products).

History of the country's development: The Netherlands has been inhabited since the last Ice Age (when the country had tundra with sparse vegetation), and the oldest traces of human activity are about one hundred thousand years old. The first inhabitants were hunters and gatherers. At the end of the Ice Age, the area was inhabited by various Paleolithic groups. Around 8000 BC, the country was inhabited by a Mesolithic tribe, followed by the Iron Age with a relatively high standard of living over the next few millennia.

At the time of the arrival of the Romans, the Netherlands was inhabited by Germanic tribes such as the Tubantians, Caninefates and Frisians, who settled there around 600 BC. Celtic tribes such as the Eburones and Menapians inhabited the south of the country. At the beginning of Roman colonization, the German tribes of the Batavians and Toxandrans also arrived in the country. During the Roman Empire, the southern part of what is now the Netherlands was occupied by the Romans and became part of the province of Belgica and later the province of Germania Inferior.

During the Middle Ages, the Low Countries (roughly consisting of what is now Belgium and the Netherlands) included the various counties, duchies and dioceses that formed part of the Holy Roman Empire. They were united into one state under Habsburg rule in the 16th century. After the spread of Calvinism, the Counter-Reformation followed, causing a split in the country. Attempts by the Spanish king Philip II to centralize the state led to a rebellion against Spanish rule led by William I of Orange. On July 26, 1581, the country's independence was proclaimed, officially recognized by other states only after the Eighty Years' War (1568-1648). During the War of Independence, the Dutch Golden Age began, a period of economic and cultural prosperity that spanned the entire 17th century. William I of Orange is considered the founder of the independent Netherlands.

After the end of French occupation at the beginning of the 19th century, the Netherlands became a monarchy under the rule of the House of Orange. In 1830, Belgium finally separated from the Netherlands and became an independent kingdom; Luxembourg gained independence in 1890. Under pressure from liberal politicians, the country was transformed into a parliamentary democracy with a constitutional monarch in 1848. This political system has survived to this day, with a short break during the fascist occupation.

The Netherlands remained neutral during the First World War, but was occupied by Germany for five years during the Second World War. During the German invasion, Rotterdam was bombed, during which the city center was almost completely destroyed. During the occupation, about fifty thousand Dutch Jews became victims of the Holocaust.

After the war, the country began to rebuild rapidly, aided by the Marshall Plan organized by the United States of America. Thanks to this, the Netherlands quickly managed to become a modern industrial country. The former colonies of Indonesia and Suriname acquired state independence. As a result of mass immigration from Indonesia, Turkey, Morocco, Suriname and the Antilles, the Netherlands has become a multicultural country with a large Muslim population.

The sixties and seventies saw great social and cultural changes. Catholics and Protestants began to interact more with each other, and differences between classes also became less noticeable due to rising standards of living and development of education. Women's economic rights have greatly expanded, and they are increasingly occupying high positions in businesses and government. The government began to care not only about economic growth, but also about protecting the environment. The population received broad social rights; pensions, unemployment and disability benefits are among the highest in the world.

On March 25, 1957, the Netherlands became one of the founders of the European Union and subsequently did a lot for European integration. However, in the referendum on the European Constitution in June 2005, more than half of the Dutch voted against its adoption. Thus, the Netherlands became the second country to reject the draft unified EU constitution (after France).

Cultural Features

Floriculture: Tulips have a special place in Holland. From the end of March to the end of May, the most fantastic flower exhibition takes place in Koenenhof Park. Plantations of bulbous flowers stretch along the entire Dutch coast from Katwijk to Den Helder. In April and May, this entire area is covered with a multi-colored carpet of more than 17,500 hectares.

Cheeses: The Netherlands is the world's largest exporter of cheese, and is primarily famous for its Gouda and Edam cheeses. Both varieties are made from cow's milk. The only difference is in the recipe. For Edam cheese, the milk must be skimmed by half. For Goudsky, whole milk is used. You will recognize Edam cheese by its round shape, while Gouda cheese has a flatter shape and looks like a wheel. The cheese market in Alkmaar is one of the most famous. It takes place every Friday morning from April to October.

Klompen: Klompen were originally the traditional footwear of commoners in the Netherlands. Only the rich could afford boots. To this day, more than 3.7 million pairs of klompen are produced in the country per year. They are no longer worn in cities, but people working on the land still use them. Klompen are warmer and drier than rubber boots. Previously, klompen were part of the traditional folk costume.

Mills: Entire collections of windmills can be seen in Dutch villages and cities. The windmill was invented in the mid-16th century, which could pump water to a higher level. This event was a breakthrough in man's struggle with the elements.

Population: 15.8 million people.

National composition: Dutch - 94%, Moroccans, Turks and others.

Confessional composition: Catholics (34%), Protestants (25%), Muslims (3%) and others. 40% of the population do not consider themselves followers of any religion.

Average life expectancy: 79.25 years
Men: 76.66 years
Women: 81.98 years

The male to female ratio, which has remained virtually unchanged since 1980, is 49.5:51.5. 82% of the population lives in cities, the majority live in the industrial, trade and transport agglomeration of Randstad, which includes Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Delft and Utrecht.

Education level: The Dutch education system, unlike the British or American ones, is not based on two degrees of diplomas. Each student receives a doctoral degree, which is awarded after 4 years of full-time study in some disciplines and after 5 years in engineering, science and agriculture. Higher education is considered incomplete if the academic program is interrupted before the student has completed all course requirements. The peculiarity of the Dutch education system is the interconnection and continuity of all its links, which allows you to move from one level to another and, following different educational routes, obtain a diploma of the desired degree. This circumstance is especially important for foreign students: in the case when the learning process in the first years is slow and difficult, you can move from level to level and go through the program again.

Main occupation: trade, industry, agriculture and services.

Economic characteristics

GDP: The GDP of the Netherlands in 2008 was 862.9 billion US dollars. GDP per capita amounted to -51,657 billion US dollars

Currency: Euro (Before 2002 - Dutch guilder).

Volume of annual budget and external debt: income -356 billion dollars, expenditure 399.3 billion dollars for 2010.3,733 trillion. dollars external debt as of December 31, 2009.

Characteristics of the main industries, agriculture. and world economic relations: Dutch industry can be divided into large industries focused on exports and smaller industries focused on producing products for the domestic market. Export industries are: metallurgical, mechanical engineering, electrical, chemical and food industries. In terms of production volume, all industries stand out: petrochemicals - 27% of turnover, food industry - 27%, mechanical engineering - 12.4%. The Netherlands cooperates and exports to Belgium, France, Italy, Sweden and the UK.

Characteristics of the country's regions

I highlighted these two regions because they are one of the most densely populated and largest regions of the Netherlands, with a large amount of natural and industrial resources. Due to the mild climate and location along the seashore, both tourism and agriculture are successfully developing in these two regions.

Relief of the country

The country is located mainly on coastal lowlands and areas of reclaimed land (polderiers). By the nature of the relief, the territory of the Netherlands is an almost ideal plain. Approximately 2/5 of the country's territory is below sea level (in some places up to 5 m below sea level). These are mainly its northern and western regions. The height rarely exceeds 50 meters. Such lands are reliably protected by a system of dams, dams and other hydraulic and drainage structures. The total length of the dams is 3,700 km. The west of the country, lying below sea level, is cut by canals and sea branches. The North Sea coast consists largely of dunes. In the north, the dunes are broken by sea branches, thus creating the West Frisian Islands, to the east of which lies the tidal sea, called the Wadensee in Holland. To the southeast the terrain rises slightly. The highest point in the country is Vaalserberg, 321 m high, and the lowest is 6.7 m below sea level. The main rivers are the Rhine with its tributaries, the Meuse, and the Scheldt. The largest lake is the IJsselmeer, with an area of ​​1210 square meters. meters)

Soil cover and minerals

The soil and vegetation cover of the Netherlands, despite the small size of the country, is quite diverse. In the north and east, derk-pale podzolic soils are common, developing on sandy deposits under heath and oak forests. These soils are characterized by a humus horizon up to 20 cm thick with a humus content of more than 5%. In many areas, the accumulation of humus has been artificially stimulated, and the natural soils there are actually buried under a dark-colored layer - a mixture of manure, turf, forest litter and sand. These soils occupy one of the first places in Europe in terms of their arable properties. The polders, almost entirely used for agricultural purposes, are composed mainly of clay and peat. Heather heaths (short grass with shrubs) and pine-oak-beech forests have been preserved here. The plateaus of southern Limburg are covered with loess of aeolian origin. The humid climate and flat, low-lying terrain of the Netherlands contributed to the formation of swamps here, which have undergone significant reclamation. Often bog peat is covered with mineral soil, raised from ditches either during their periodic cleaning, or during deep plowing. The soils of the river valleys along the Rhine and Meuse, as well as the soils of the marches, are very peculiar. Forests cover 7.6% of the country's territory, mostly in the form of groves. Oak, beech, hornbeam, and ash are represented.

Among the mineral resources is natural gas (explored reserves 2 billion m 3, 1st place in Western Europe). Oil production is carried out on the Dutch part of the continental shelf. There is coal and clay.

Animal world

In the process of human development of the territory of the Netherlands, many species of wild animals were forced out of their habitats. However, the country is home to many birds, especially waterfowl. Many rare animal species are protected in national parks and reserves. Mainly those species of wild animals that live in damp meadows, reservoirs and canals have been preserved. The expansion of land reclamation has worsened the living conditions of birds, and only in certain coastal areas relatively large colonies still remain. There are about 180 bird species in the Netherlands. And during winter migrations, thousands of waterfowl reach the Netherlands. In the north of the country, on the shallows of the Wadden Sea, separating the West Frisian Islands from the mainland, white-fronted geese, short-billed bean gooses, barnacle geese, a lot of gulls and waders winter. It is also home to the southernmost population of eiders. An abundance of lapwings and godwits is characteristic of the marches. On the coast itself, large curlews, herbals, and turukhtans are common.

The national bird of the Netherlands is the spoonbill. A white or pink large, long-legged bird that lives in swamps. She has a very large, long beak that widens towards the end. This beak is convenient for getting food out of the swamp. Male roseate spoonbills present twigs to the lady during courtship. The Rhine, Meuse and Scheldt delta is known as a wintering and resting place for migratory birds. Thickets of reeds along the channels attract gray geese, as well as teal, pintails, curlews, and snipe for wintering. Breeding species include Reed Harrier, Short-eared Owl, Rail, Crake, Whiskered Tit and Bittern. Also in the delta region, muskrats have widely settled along the overgrown shores of small bays. Seals live off the northern coast of the Netherlands, the fishing of which is limited, and in some areas completely prohibited. In large forests there are wood mice, squirrels, rabbits, roe deer, as well as representatives of the mustelid family. The moorlands are characterized by grouse and large corbels, and the coastal dunes are characterized by wild crumbs. The North Sea is rich in fish - cod, herring.

Water resources

Water can be called one of the natural resources of the Netherlands. The country has a very dense river network, the converging mouths of the Rhine, Meuse and Scheldt forming a vast common navigable delta. The rivers are full-flowing and bring masses of sediment, but often their beds carry the risk of flooding. If, during the spring flood, the waters of the Rhine collide with a tidal wave penetrating up the branches of the delta, the rivers overflow their banks, destroy the dams and spill over the surrounding lowlands. To avoid this, protective dams are built on river banks. In addition, the existing system of canals with locks helps regulate the flow and at the same time increases the navigational value of the rivers. The Netherlands is famous all over the world for its hydraulic structures. In 1927, a large hydraulic engineering project to drain the Zuider Zee Bay began in the Netherlands. By 1932, the construction of the main dam, 29 km long, was completed, which crossed this bay in the area between the provinces of North Holland and Friesland. Over the next five years, the freshwater lake IJsselmeer formed above this dam, which was planned to be drained. First of all, the Wieringermeer polder was created in the north-west, then the Urkerland in the north-east. The territories of Eastern and Southern Flevoland were drained in the same way. In the late 1980s, the drainage of Markerward was completed. Once the project is fully completed, over 60% of the original area of ​​the IJsselmeer will be reclaimed from the sea.

Another project, called "Delta", completed in 1986, was intended mainly to protect the outer parts of the Rhine-Meuse delta with its many islands from flooding. This project acquired particular significance after the disaster of 1953, when during a storm in the North Sea the coastal dikes were destroyed and most of the deltaic lowlands were flooded. During the implementation of the project, all branches of the delta were blocked by dams that connected the islands. The only exception was the Eastern Scheldt branch, along which the sea route to the port of Antwerp (Belgium) passes. Currently, the Netherlands is considering a project to build dams between the West Frisian Islands, which border the northern coast of the country. At the same time, the shallow Wadden Sea (Wadden Sea), stretching between these islands and the mainland, will also be drained.

In the 1990s, the strategy of hydraulic engineering and reclamation work, which had a thousand-year history, changed significantly. Now it is planned to transform about 240 thousand hectares, or approximately 1/10 of all agricultural land in the country, into forests, meadows and lakes in order to protect the environment.

Climate

The climate of the Netherlands is determined by its position in temperate latitudes on the Atlantic lowlands of Europe. Due to the small size of the country and the absence of significant elevations, climatic differences are weakly expressed.

Due to the predominance of westerly winds blowing from the North Sea, the Netherlands usually experiences mild winters and cool summers. The average temperature in January is 2° C. In winter there are short periods with negative temperatures, alternating with thaws. It is not every year that ice cover is formed that is safe for skating, but when it does, the Dutch enjoy going skating on the canals. The average July temperature is 16–17° C. In summer, periods of cool weather alternate with hot days. Although the average annual precipitation falls from 650 to 750 mm, there is rarely a day without rain; on average, there are 35 clear sunny days per year. There is often fog, and snow sometimes falls in winter.