In the early 12th century, a few fishermen settled along a river marshland they called Aeme-stelle meaning abundant water. Their fledgling community of Amstelredam grew into today’s Amsterdam. During the Middle Ages, the Amstel provided fresh water and a means of transportation. The river’s direction was significantly altered while building the canal system. The 19 mile flow of Amstel now ends here at the confluence of the Singel, Rokin and Kloveniersburgwal canals. And for fans of Dutch beer, yes, the Amstel Brewery was named after the river when founded in 1870.
