There are many things to say about Rotterdam, but if I had to describe this city in just one word I would say innovation. Rotterdam is the perfect example of an innovative architectural style.
This is the reason why it is considered to be the architectural capital of the Netherlands. It is obvious why the Netherlands Architecture Institute was founded in Rotterdam. Located on the North Sea, the city of Rotterdam is the largest port in Europe.
Also known as “Manhattan on the Meuse”, Rotterdam hosts three important rivers: the Rhine, the Meuse and the Scheldt. These three rivers create a unique landscape that perfectly blends together with its impressive skyscrapers.
My visit in Rotterdam was quite short but enough to be impressed by its unique architectural style. I was completely stunned by its imposing skyscrapers. A walk among its astonishing buildings is indeed an unforgettable experience and every moment you spend in these locations will be very entertaining.
You could visit the Erasmus Bridge, which is Rotterdam’s iconic bridge, The White House, which is the first skyscraper in Europe, the modern Central Station, the Laurence Church, the Groot Handelsgebouw or the Wholesale Building, which is one of the symbols of its reconstruction or the famous Cube Houses.
I have to admit that the innovative Cube Houses are among my favorite buildings in Rotterdam. I could definitely look at them for hours. When I think about my visit in Rotterdam, I feel a trace of regret thinking that I didn’t visit more.
I would have liked to visit a few more museums, attractions, shopping centers and I would have liked to enjoy more the heady atmosphere of the city. Heady is the word that perfectly describes the architecture of Rotterdam.
In my opinion this city was born from its own ashes, because if you didn’t know, Rotterdam’s centre was almost completely destroyed during the Second World War. I really believe that every failure is an opportunity and the destruction of Rotterdam was meant to happen in order to become a stronger economic, cultural and architectural center.
The Academy of Urbanism voted Rotterdam as 2015 European City of the Year. I believe that this city truly deserves this title and I am sure you will think the same after your own experience there.
All things considered, my advice is to visit Rotterdam especially if you want to discover and admire a unique and innovative architectural style.
