Rotterdam is the Netherlands’ second-largest city. It’s a testament to human resilience. A place where modern architecture rises from a landscape etched with the destruction of the past.
During World War II, the city suffered extensive bombing, leaving much of its historic center in ruins. Rotterdam chose to rebuild itself, resulting in a cityscape where sleek skyscrapers and innovative structures stand shoulder-to-shoulder with carefully restored historical areas like the Delfshaven district, with its 17th-century houses and harbor, offering a glimpse into Rotterdam’s pre-war soul.
Rotterdam has several popular landmarks and attractions. The iconic asymmetrical Erasmus Bridge dominates the skyline with its 139-meter pylon that some say resembles a swan. Cube Houses, tilted at a daring 45-degree angle, challenge traditional notions of design and are rumored to leave the inhabitants feeling off-kilter when first moving in. Markthal Rotterdam, a horseshoe-shaped structure, is filled with an indoor market and restaurants under a stunning ceiling artwork, depicting horns of plenty with a tumble of fruits, vegetables, fish, wheat, and flowers swirling overhead.
As Europe’s largest port, the harbor teems with modern cruise ships and cargo vessels with a rich maritime history. Meanwhile, the Dutch have waged a centuries-long battle against the seas. From the age-old use of windmills and canals to modern dams and engineering marvels, reclaiming land and demonstrating their unwavering ingenuity.
If you are visiting Rotterdam, where should you look for the perfect vintage souvenir?
A Souvenir Fit for a King (or Queen of Souvenirs)
For the vintage enthusiast venturing beyond the city center, visit Fiztroy and Everest. Imagine stepping into a space reminiscent of Ernest Hemingway’s study. Moody and masculine. It feels like you should pour a single-malt scotch into a crystal highball glass and settle into a deep leather chair.
It describes itself as “Gentlemen’s Antiques.”
Worn leather luggage whispers tales of faraway journeys. Wicker trucks, globes, binocular cases, and wooden airplane propellers. Trophies of forgotten victories and crystal decanters that once held libations stand frozen in time. Fishing tackle gleams with a hint of past adventures, and driving goggles hint at journeys down dusty forgotten roads. Each item, aged to perfection, carries a story.
Bringing It Home
For some, the walls of their home are a living travelogue. Every object tells a story, transporting them back to a memory.
This is especially true for me. One such treasure, a hand-painted tabletop foosball game, hangs proudly in our den. This unique find, a birthday surprise for my husband, was spotted at Fitzroy and Everest before we left Rotterdam behind. Soccer for our American friends, this game of football is perfectly patinaed after years of being played in its life before ours. It was the last treasure loaded into our container bound for home.
Lucky for us, a shipping container also allowed us to snag a few other pieces from Fitzroy and Everest beyond a simple souvenir. Two well-loved, aged leather chairs – perfectly imperfect with their time-worn comfort – and a charming pond boat with a bright red hull now hold a special place in our home on the beach.
Vintage Shop Smaller Finds
Even for those without a container, there are endless possibilities for bringing home a vintage souvenir. From black-and-white photographs to racing memorabilia and safari hats, Fitzroy and Everest offers smaller souvenirs that fit in a suitcase… or maybe a vintage leather suitcase! Perhaps you’ll find the perfect red leather cricket balls to add a vibrant pop of color to your own story.
Rotterdam is a city that defies expectations. It’s a place where the past and present coexist, offering a unique and unforgettable travel experience, including a can’t-miss vintage shop!
