198 TILG Netherlands ceo networks

The Netherlands' name reflects its low-lying topography, with more than a quarter of its total area under sea level.

Now a constitutional monarchy, the country began its independent life as a republic in the 16th century, when the foundations were laid for it to become one of the world's foremost maritime trading nations.

Although traditionally among the keener advocates of the European Union, Dutch voters echoed those in France by spurning the proposed EU constitution in a 2005 referendum.

The Netherlands has produced many of the world's most famous artists from Rembrandt and Vermeer in the 17th century to Van Gogh in the 19th and Mondrian in the 20th. It attracts visitors from across the globe.

The Beautiful Netherlands You Have to Visit to appreciate

Republic of Netherlands
Capital: Amsterdam
Population 16.7 million
Area 41,864 sq km (16,164 sq miles)
Major language Dutch
Major religion Christianity
Life expectancy 79 years (men), 83 years (women)
Currency euro

TRAVEL & ECONOMY

According to the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, the Netherlands was the 18th largest economy of the world in 2012. This for a country that has about 17 million inhabitants.). GDP per capita is roughly $43,404 which makes it one of richest nations in the world per capita).