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Experiences of a Dutch Journalist
Tribute to the Strekdam, April 2007 The Strekdam is a 2,4km dam in the IJmeer within a stone's throw of the centre of Amsterdam. It was constructed in 1890 and has served as a foundation for the sewage pipe. It is said that the fattest eel was caught here... I first discovered the Strekdam at the end of last year and I fell in love with it. It has become my favorite place for a walk. In September 2007, the Strekdam will be cut in two pieces to make a passage for ships from the marina in IJburg. The last kilometer will be given to the birds, the first kilometer is left for walkers...
Officially you're not even allowed to walk there as the sign indicates. But no one bothers.
Weird look at the electricity grid.
On the one hand side the bridge to the currently constructed IJburg district.
On the way you're in the illusion you're in a forest.
On the other side you see old Amsterdam: Uitdam (not in the picture) and light house island (in the distance).
After half an hour walk you end up at a small beach with a view on Pampus, a fortress constructed at the end of the 19th century to defend Amsterdam against intruders from the water. From September 2007, I won't be able to get here anymore. Pitty, isn't it?
