Edam

North Holland, Netherlands

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Edam is a historic town in North Holland, Netherlands, named after a dam built on the small river E or IJe near the former Zuiderzee (now IJsselmeer). Established around the 12th century, Edam grew as a vibrant trade and shipbuilding center, with up to 33 shipyards in the 16th century and flourishing commerce connected to major Dutch cities.

The town was granted borough rights in 1357, which helped it develop a busy harbor and a weekly market, with cheese trading becoming its most famous economic activity from the 16th century onward. Edam is renowned worldwide for its signature Edam cheese, which is still celebrated with a traditional cheese market during summer Wednesdays.

Architecturally, Edam features well-preserved historic buildings including the large St. Nicholas Church with impressive stained glass, the timbered town hall built in Louis XIV style, and a leaning carillon tower with one of the oldest clockworks in the Netherlands. Its charming canals, cobbled streets, and cheese warehouses add to its appeal as a picturesque Dutch town rich in cultural heritage.