| Haarlem, better known as the "Flower
City of Europe" because of its extensive flower cultivation, has interesting middle
age characteristics. Important monuments, beautiful buildings and picturesque streets make
of Haarlem one of the most historical cities of Holland. One can visit: The Frans Hals
Museum, a building from the 17th century that houses a collection of paintings
of the "Haarlem School"; the Archaeological Museum; the Art Centre "De
Haalen", situated in the "Butchers Hall", a fine example of Dutch
Renaissance architecture; |
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the Teylers Museum, the oldest public
museum in the Netherlands, that houses a collection of Italian, French and Dutch drawings
and prints; the Fish Auction Hall (Vishal), where one can see exhibitions of modern art;
the City Hall, a building from the 13th century, and the Great Church in gothic
style, where one can find the famous Muller Organ on which young Mozart once played.It is
possible to visit the house of Coorie Ten Boom as well. She was a heroine of the
resistance movement during the Second World War who saved the live of many people. Walking
through the city's streets, one can come across small curiosity shops and the workshops of
clockmakers, of goldsmiths and of stained glass restorers.
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| Along the Spaarne, there can be found
ship-chandlers. In the city surroundings, one can find green recreational areas that offer
the possibility to do sports activities, such as cycling, golf, canoeing, skiing on
artificial slopes or simply walking around the area. Haarlem organises an annual flower
parade with beautiful floats entirely covered with flowers. An important means of
promoting tourism in the region are the "Haarlem Flower Girls", a team of 12
girls from Haarlem. Beyond its picturesque look, Haarlem is an important trade and
industrial centre due to its nearby airport that favours connections with the whole
country. |
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