Amsterdam
Roughly a third of the Netherlands sits below sea level, held dry by dikes, pumps and polders. Here is how the system works and which nearby sites let you see it up close.
Editorial preview · factual review pendingThe forward tilt and roof hook on Amsterdam canal houses trace to medieval wooden construction and a hoisting beam still used to move furniture through the windows.
Editorial preview · factual review pendingCannabis sale in a Dutch coffeeshop is technically still an offence the state chooses not to prosecute under conditions. Here is what the toleration policy permits, limits and does not touch.
Editorial preview · factual review pending