Codarts - Kruisplein 26

‘We’re from Rotterdam, we’ll keep going’ appeared on a placard just days after the city was devastated by aerial bombing on 14 May 1940. This resolute motto in many ways typifies the character of Rotterdam and its inhabitants. It explains how a buzzing metropolis was built literally on the post-blitz ruins. The port city, where nowadays around 170 different nationalities help create an open and cosmopolitan atmosphere. And where the resolute perseverance of Rotterdam people still motors the city’s continual push for innovation.

Trendsetter

Rotterdam is synonymous with innovation, whether it is in architecture, the creative sector or the port. It is often a trendsetter. Just think of the Maasvlakte II project, extending the port into the sea, and of the architectural tours de force in the Kop van Zuid district. The city on the Maas is home to many leading architectural practices, including Rem Koolhaas’ OMA and the MVRDV and ZUS practices. Rotterdam’s universities, educational institutes and knowledge centres, including the flagship Erasmus University, have an international reputation for high-quality research and education.

World Port

The port remains an integral part of Rotterdam. This is a given after more than 400 years of trade and shipping success. Rotterdam has Europe’s largest port which makes it the gateway to the European mainland. A staggering 450 million tons of goods are transferred through the port of Rotterdam each year, serving the needs of about 350 million consumers.

Buzzing city

Rotterdam never sleeps, there is always something going on. Every year, new, original festivals are launched. New restaurants, bars, coffee bars and clubs are opening at exciting locations all the time. Leading museums and art institutions, such as the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen and the Kunsthal Rotterdam, continue to attract attention with high-profile exhibitions. And also the range of shopping opportunities grow day by day, from famous international fashion stores to cool design shops selling products produced locally.

Today’s Rotterdam is a young, multifaceted and dynamic town. A breeding ground for creativity. Home to Europe’s largest port. Trendsetter in lots of areas. In short, there is always something to experience in Rotterdam. It is a city that is booming, buzzing and is never boring. Where there is space for everyone. And where the sky really is the limit.