Amsterdam is an incredibly unique city. Not only is it considered a cultural center and a bastion of tolerance, it is also beautiful. It was built on 90 islands linked by over 400 different bridges, and this core of the city remains in the city center. Homes are built directly on the water, many of them styled like the original homes built in as early as 1500. Many homes are built near drawbridges, and incorporate the canals. In addition to the natural channels between the islands, Amsterdam also has an additional number of man-made canals that have been added over time.