Fact 1: Land of Bikes
The Netherlands has more bicycles than people. There are over 22 million bicycles in the country compared to 17 million people. Dutch people are passionate about cycling, and it's a primary mode of transport. In fact, its capital, Amsterdam is often referred to as the 'Bike Capital of the World'.
Fact 2: Ingenious Water Management
Approximately one-third of the Netherlands is below sea level. The lowest point, Zuidplaspolder, is 22 feet (6.7 meters) below sea level. Furthermore, two-thirds of its area is vulnerable to flooding, but ingenious Dutch water management has kept the sea at bay with an elaborate system of dikes, canals, and pumping stations.
Fact 3: A Floral Heaven
The Netherlands is the world's largest exporter of flowers. It's home to the biggest flower auction house in the world, located in Aalsmeer. The country also hosts the stunning Keukenhof flower garden, filled with more than seven million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths every spring.
Fact 4: Birthplace of Orange Carrots
The modern-day orange carrot can trace its origins back to the Netherlands in the 17th century. Dutch growers cultivated these in tribute to the House of Orange, the Dutch Royal Family. Before this, carrots were a variety of hues including purple, white, and yellow.
Fact 5: The Windmill Province
The Netherlands is home to more than 1,000 operational windmills, the highest density globally. Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, houses 19 preserved windmills that date back to the 18th century.
Fact 6: The Tallest Nation
The Dutch are the tallest people in the world. The average height for men is 6 feet (1.83 meters) and for women, it’s 5 feet 7 inches (1.71 meters). This stature advantage is believed to be linked to their diet, genetics, and quality of life.
Fact 7: Home of Famous Artists
The Netherlands has been a cradle for many world-renowned artists. Masters like Rembrandt, Vermeer, Van Gogh, and Piet Mondrian hail from this tiny country. The Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam are must-visits for art lovers.
Fact 8: The Dutch Love Cheese
The Netherlands is the largest cheese exporter in the world, boasting a variety of over 200 different kinds of cheese. Famous Dutch cheeses include Gouda, Edam, and Leyden. There's also a popular tradition of cheese markets in cities such as Gouda and Alkmaar.
Fact 9: A Multilingual Country
The Dutch are known for their language skills. Around 90% of the population speaks English fluently, making it one of the most English-proficient countries where English isn’t the first language. Most Dutch people also speak German and French.
Fact 10: First to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage
The Netherlands was the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage in 2001. This significant milestone reflects the country's extensive history as a global leader in advocating for LGBTQI rights.
Fact 11: King’s Day Celebration
Every year on April 27th, the entire country turns into an orange sea to celebrate King’s Day, the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. It's one of the world's biggest and most vibrant street parties, where millions embrace the color of the Dutch royal house, Orange.
Fact 12: Three Capital Cities!
The Netherlands has three capital cities. Amsterdam is the official capital according to the constitution, The Hague is the seat of government and home to the royal family, and Rotterdam boasts Europe's busiest port.
Fact 13: A Green Nation
The Netherlands is one of the top countries in the world for environmental sustainability. Its green credentials include comprehensive waste management system, forward-thinking electric vehicle use, and pioneering wind energy production.
Fact 14: A Cat-Loving Nation
In Amsterdam alone, there are about 165 canals that host around 30 catboats, which are vessels where stray and abandoned cats are cared for. The city is also home to the world's only floating cat sanctuary, "De Poezenboot".
Fact 15: World’s Oldest Working Planetarium
The Netherlands is home to the world's oldest working planetarium. Located in Franeker, the Eise Eisinga Planetarium was built from 1774 to 1781 and is still operational.
Fact 16: Renowned Dutch Beer
The Netherlands is the world's second largest beer exporter. Famous brands like Heineken, Amstel, and Grolsch originate in the country.
Fact 17: Dutch Breakfast - Sweet or Savory?
The Dutch enjoy both sweet and savory foods for breakfast. A favorite is ‘hagelslag,' a type of sprinkle that is typically used on buttered bread. It comes in many flavors including chocolate, fruit, and licorice.
Fact 18: The Netherlands is a Monarchy
Unlike many European countries, the Netherlands is still a monarchy. King Willem-Alexander, who succeeded his mother, Queen Beatrix, in 2013, is the current monarch.
Fact 19: Coffee Enthusiasts
Dutch people are among the world's top coffee consumers. On average, each Dutch person consumes about 2.4 cups of coffee per day.
Fact 20: An Architectural Melting Pot
The Netherlands boasts an eclectic mix of architectural styles due to its rich history. From the canal houses of Amsterdam to the futuristic designs of Rotterdam, Dutch architecture is diverse and creative. The Cubic Houses in Rotterdam by architect Piet Blom are a noteworthy example of the country's unique and innovative architectural design.