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As early as the 13th century, tiny ships sailed from this port into the challenging Zuider Sea. Amsterdam was the birthplace of the Hanseatic League and gained renown in the 15th century when it became a major trading center, steadily assuming commercial leadership and thus controlling the country's finances. This trend remains to this day. Future-oriented and steeped in history, Amsterdam is most famous for its narrow, gabled houses lining the canals.