Colors of Alkmaar - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

The city of Alkmaar welcomes guests with a decent choice of destinations and traditional cordiality. Prepare yourself for a variety of pleasant surprises and multifaceted experiences from this stunning destination. Alkmaar consists of stair-step bridges, canals, ancient paved bridges, gabled roofs, crowned Gothic cathedrals, narrow streets, which suddenly end in historical squares, and the atmosphere of an ancient place typical for the old-fashioned towns of the Netherlands. But the real heart of this amazing city is its residents. Local people are very friendly and hospitable, they differ in moderation and thrift in everything. At the same time, they are always ready to help and assist you.

The first reference to Alkmaar was documented in the 10th century. At that time it was a fortress on the border in the war against the inhabitants of the Frisian islands. Nowadays it is a famous ancient city, which means "surrounded by water". In the Netherlands, Alkmaar is famous for its huge cheese fair and for the sewing factory that produces a uniform for sailors. On the beautiful antique narrow streets, you will enjoy numerous souvenir shops. The road to the main street of the city passes by the original turret "hofie" of the complex Hof von Sonoy.

In Alkmaar, as well as in all over the country, most of the population speaks common European languages ​​like English, German. So it will be fairly easy to find a common language with residents. Here it is customary to judge a person by his creditworthiness, and they don't like when somebody pretends to be who he is not in reality. The Dutch do not tolerate a disregard for the person, which can cause the similar attitude towards the offender. Residents are also characterized by openness and companionship. This is indicated by large windows in houses without curtains. Everyone can look into the living space of his neighbor without prejudice. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

From April to October, every Friday in Alkmaar is a special day. During this time, a cozy and quiet city turns into a center of attraction for tourists from all over the world. Just like several centuries ago, Alkmaar serves as the only and main venue for the famous Cheese Market, or Kaasmarkt. The cheese was produced in Alkmaar back in 1365, and in 1593 it officially received the title of cheese producer. Since 1939 it has become the only city in the Netherlands where ancient recipes of cheese production have been preserved. For twenty-two consecutive Fridays, you will be able to join the crowd at Waagplein in front of the Chamber of Weights and Measures, where the measuring scales have been kept from times immemorial. The fair starts exactly at 10 in the morning, when the bells ring, the Cheese Market is officially opened. Here you will enjoy numerous kinds of cheese, complemented with delicious wine and grapes.  Next: Culture: sights to visit