Rotterdam is the largest port in the world, the second city and the industrial heart of the Netherlands and the economic, social and cultural centre of the Rijnmond (‘Rhine Estuary’) region. In addition, Rotterdam is a city of modern architecture, events, leisure and recreation. More than one million people from 162 countries live in the Rotterdam region.

 Rotterdam was founded in the mid 13th century after a dam had been constructed in the River Rotte on the site of the present Hoogstraat. Rotterdam received municipal rights in 1340.
Over the centuries Rotterdam grew from a fishing village into an international centre of trade, transport, industry and distribution. At the beginning of the Second World War, on 14 May 1940, virtually the entire city centre was devastated by a German bombardment. This explains why scarcely any pre-war buildings have remained in this part of Rotterdam. After the war, reconstruction of what had been destroyed was given the highest priority. Now, many years later, a new, modern city centre has risen from the ashes. The avant-garde architecture is famous at home and abroad.

The city that is so unlike Holland's other cities. Located on the mighty Maas River. Rotterdam is the largest port in the world. Being the ''Gateway to Europe'' Rotterdam has a hinterland of 500 million inhabitants. Its international orientation as a port and the regeneration of its city centre have made Rotterdam a business city without parallel.

City with outstanding architecture and delightful culture. City with an abundance of attractions, festivals and museums. A swinging, young city culture and excellent shopping facilities, restaurants and cafes. Whatever your interests are, whatever you want to do, Rotterdam is sure to pleasantly surprise you!
 
Rotterdam base for worldwide business  Longstanding trading spirit, in combination with the position of the port has made Rotterdam the trading city of the Netherlands. A center of increasing economic activity where entrepreneurs quickly feel at home in both their business and private lives.

About a thousand international companies have already chosen Rotterdam as their base for European and worldwide business activities. These companies, both large and small, come from all over the world: 300 from the United States, 200 from Asian countries and 500 from various European countries.