… I have ever seen is Utrecht in the Netherlands. With a population of about 380,000 residents, the city is a transportation hub and home to a renowned university. Its historic city center is well-preserved and well-maintained, with streets filled with friendly people, cafes, pubs, and numerous little shops.
What I found most amazing, though, were the grachten (canals). These waterways run through the city, and while they are mainly decorative today, they originally served practical purposes. When they were first constructed (1200-1400), their primary functions were twofold:
First, large parts of the Netherlands are below sea level, creating a constant challenge with swampy ground. This is why the Dutch are renowned for their expertise in drainage systems. The grachten were dug to help drain excess water.
Second, in an era before modern roads, railways, and airplanes, transportation by water was the most efficient way to move goods.
The combination of these historic canals, the city’s stunning architecture, and the vibrant, lively atmosphere made Utrecht one of the most beautiful cities I have ever visited. I couldn’t stop taking pictures—see below!
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