Exploring the history and culture of Holland immediately sheds light on a very interesting fact. To the rest of the world, Holland and The Netherlands are synonymous terms; however to natives of the country, these designations are definitely not the same since Holland is actually situated in the northwestern sector of The Netherlands encompassing the two provinces of North and South Holland.

The capital of North Holland is Haarlem with the major city being Amsterdam where most of the population resides. This area is home to a live-museum depicting 17th and 18 th century life along the Zanzee River. The town of Alkmaar is home to the only stove museum in the world, with exhibits ranging from fine porcelain stoves used in palaces to very small, less-ornate models used in the average home.

Another highlight of North Holland is the Alkmaar’s cheese museum. Exhibits and demonstrations offer insight into the history and tools used in cheese production dating back to the 16th century.

The capital of South Holland, is The Hague, with the main city being Rotterdam. In addition to a cheese market, in operation for around 300 years, South Holland is known for beaches, Delft pottery and flower bulb production.

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