Port of Amsterdam Facts for Kids

The Harbour in Amsterdam (1630) by Hendrick Cornelisz Vroom

Satellite image of the port of Amsterdam, with the North Sea Canal

The Port of Amsterdam is a very important port in the city of Amsterdam, which is in the Netherlands. It is like a giant gateway for ships carrying goods. This port is one of the busiest in Europe. In fact, it is the 4th most important port on the continent.

The Port of Amsterdam has a long history. It started way back in the 13th century. In the 1600s, it was a main port for the Dutch East India Company. This was a huge trading company that sailed all over the world. Today, it is the second largest port in the Netherlands. The port of Rotterdam is the largest.

A special waterway called the North Sea Canal connects the port to the North Sea. This makes it easy for big ships to reach the port from the ocean. The Port of Amsterdam mostly handles bulk cargo. This means large amounts of one type of material, like coal or sand. In 2013, about 95 million tons of goods passed through the port. About 79 million tons of these were bulk cargo. A lot of people work here too, around 60,000!

What is the Port of Amsterdam?
A Look at the Port's History
How the Port Works Today
Images for kids
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What is the Port of Amsterdam?

The Port of Amsterdam is a large area where ships load and unload goods. It is located in the city of Amsterdam, in the Netherlands. Think of it as a huge parking lot and loading dock for ships.

This port is very important for trade. It helps bring many different items into Europe. It also sends goods from Europe to other parts of the world.

A Look at the Port's History

The Port of Amsterdam began a very long time ago. It was first created in the 13th century. This means it has been active for over 700 years!

In the 17th century, the port became even more famous. It was a main hub for the Dutch East India Company. This company traded spices, textiles, and other goods from Asia. The port helped Amsterdam become a rich and powerful city during that time.

Over the years, the port has grown and changed. It has adapted to new types of ships and goods. Today, it continues to be a key part of the Netherlands' economy.

How the Port Works Today

The Port of Amsterdam is still very busy. It is the 4th largest port in Europe by the amount of goods it handles. In the Netherlands, it is the second largest, right after the Port of Rotterdam.

The port is connected to the North Sea by the North Sea Canal. This canal is like a superhighway for ships. It allows large vessels to travel directly from the sea to the port.

Most of the goods handled here are bulk cargo. This includes things like coal, oil, sand, and grain. These are materials that are shipped in large, unpackaged amounts. The port also handles other types of goods, including containers and passenger ships.

Many people work at the Port of Amsterdam. About 60,000 people have jobs related to the port. These jobs include loading ships, managing cargo, and keeping the port running smoothly.