The Netherlands is a state bordering Belgium and Germany. This small but cozy and welcoming kingdom consists of the Netherlands and a group of Caribbean islands. Often the Netherlands is called Holland, but this name only refers to the North and South provinces. The Netherlands itself consists of 12 provinces. And today we will consider interesting facts about the Netherlands, which are likely to be useful to you if you suddenly decide to visit this wonderful country.
Interesting to know...
The capital of the state is Amsterdam, one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. At the head of the state is the monarch, Willem-Alexander. Part of the Netherlands lies below sea level, and 40% of the country is occupied by “polders” - artificially washed land areas crossed by many dams, canals and rivers. The abundance of water threatens the country with flooding, so the government is taking measures to protect the territory.
Half of the population are atheists, while the other part is divided into Catholics and Protestants. Only 3% of the population have a different religion.
The official language of the country is Dutch and West Frisian, but most of the local residents also speak English, French, German, so they have no difficulties communicating with tourists. An interesting fact about the Netherlands: 94% of the population over 15 speak German or English.
Symbols of the Netherlands: interesting facts
Everyone knows the main symbols of the country - windmills, tulips, cheese ... This inexpressible Dutch flavor can not be confused with any other!
Windmills were originally built in order to operate pumps that pump water. After all, half of the land of the Netherlands was recaptured from the water! Today, mills in the Netherlands that have survived to this day are very popular among tourists. About 100 mills are scattered throughout the country and each of them has the status of a historical landmark. And the most famous is a group of 19 mills, built in the 18th century. It is located in Kinderdijk and is one of the kingdom's most popular attractions. In the city of Zaastad, the mills can be seen in working condition.
Tulips are another symbol of Holland. Boundless flower fields are a colorful decoration of the Netherlands. There are especially many tulips here that were brought to the country by the Turks just five centuries ago, but have taken root in it so much that they are now its hallmark. Once upon a time, for the rare bulbs of these amazing flowers, you could buy a whole house. Today, tulips are still equally popular and beloved by the Dutch. The largest collection of tulips is in the famous Keukenhof park (the city of Lisse).
Every year in the Netherlands, flower shows are held. The tulip festival, which lasts several spring months, is especially popular. Tulip sculptures can be admired at more than one point in Amsterdam.
Orange is another unofficial symbol of the Netherlands. Interesting facts about the country cannot be considered without mentioning this cheerful shade. The orange color symbolizes optimism and joy, but, in addition, it is the official color of the royal dynasty, to which the Dutch especially favor. Therefore, during the holidays the abundance of orange is quite understandable.
“The main thing in the theater of life is the buffet”
The Netherlands loves to eat deliciously, but they practically do not have their own traditional cuisine - it is a mixture of foreign cultures.
Locals eat a lot of sour-milk products (it is this factor that some explain their high growth). The country is one of the largest exporters of cheese in the world. Cheese is distinguished by excellent taste and is actively sold in other countries. A variety of varieties can be tasted in the numerous cheese markets, which still retain the amazing atmosphere of the Middle Ages.
Another interesting fact about the Netherlands: the local population loves meat. One dish, no matter for lunch or dinner, must be combined with meat. The meat is always present in the kitchen of any Dutchman and is very often combined with vegetables, which are usually mashed in mashed potatoes. Potatoes are most popular, not only in the form of mashed potatoes or salad, but also in the form of chips, which the local population crunches constantly.
The Dutch are known for their love of coffee and beer. They drink coffee all the time, on average, a little more than three cups a day. Dinner, which usually takes place at 6-7 hours, is washed down with coffee or beer, which is drunk in a special way, slowly sipping from a glass.
Where without a bike?
This is surprising, but the inhabitants of the Netherlands love bikes so much that the number of these vehicles exceeds the country's population! Bicycles go to work, study and just for a walk.
The price of two-wheeled handsome men in the Netherlands is not particularly high, but they are so often stolen that a lock on an “iron friend” is more expensive than the bicycle itself. To distinguish bicycles from each other and find their own, the owners decorate them.
Sex, drugs and rock and roll
Perhaps the Netherlands is the most "legalized" in the world. Interesting facts about the country indicate that its government acts subtly and wisely. First of all, prostitution, same-sex marriage and even euthanasia are allowed here.
Indeed, prostitution and soft drugs are legalized in the Netherlands. And if tourists are especially interested in the latter, then the Dutch themselves rarely use soft drugs. The government explains this by saying that the permitted fruit is less sweet, and 30 grams of soft drugs like marijuana and hashish will not harm your health. For those who want to smoke “weed” outside the house, special coffee shops are open.
Prostitution in the Netherlands is a separate issue. Priestesses of love receive a salary, and subsequently a pension, regularly undergo a medical examination and are protected by law from cruel clients. Moreover, girls work for themselves and pay a certain percentage to the state treasury.
And some more interesting facts ...
Even in small things, the original culture of the Netherlands slips. Interesting facts for children and adults who are not included in the above topics are listed below.
1. The Dutch never wear hats, even in winter.
2. The Netherlands is home to many talented artists, including Van Gogh.
3. The local population loves cheeses, but in the spring herring is especially popular. It is during this period the most delicious and cook it in a certain way.
4. Work colleagues, regardless of gender, wash themselves in baths.
5. In the Netherlands, it is not customary to hang curtains on windows.
Conclusion
All this is amazing and colorful Netherlands. Interesting facts for children and adults, alas, do not fit in one article, because this country is truly unique.