How did Amsterdam in the Netherlands get its name?

Amsterdam's name originates from Amstelredamme, which means "dam on the Amstel River." The city developed around a small fishing settlement situated on the banks of the Amstel. By the 12th century, a dam was built across the river to control flooding, leading to the city's Dutch name, "Amstelredamme" (derived from "Aemstelredam"). Over time, the name was shortened to Amsterdam.