Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands and prides itself on being its
architecture capital. The first thing that most visitors notice is the many high-rises which
give the city its billing as 'Manhattan on the Maas'. But there is much more to Rotterdam than
glossy prestige projects. World-famous for its harbour which is currently the biggest in
Europe Rotterdam is a very dynamic metropolis: experimental slightly rough around the edges
and studded with hidden gems. This architecture guide presents more than 150 selected buildings
in Rotterdam ranging from the few remaining from the Golden Age to modern classics and
contemporary projects. It covers famous highlights but also lesser-known interventions such
as small infill and self-build projects. The buildings are arranged in six tours through
different areas of the city - ideal for discovering by bike. In addition to an introduction to
the historical development of the city the guide also includes a chapter on the most momentous
event in the history of Rotterdam: the bombing of the city centre during the Second World War
and its subsequent reconstruction. An interview with renowned Rotterdam-based architect Kees
Christiaanse provides an insider's view on recent developments.
