Enkhuizen was one of the harbour-towns of the VOC, just like Hoorn and Amsterdam, from where overseas trade with the East Indies was conducted. It received city rights in 1355. In the mid-17th century, Enkhuizen was at the peak of its power and was one of the most important harbour cities in the Netherlands. However, due to a variety of reasons, notably the silting up of the harbours, Enkhuizen lost its position to Amsterdam.
Enkhuizen has one of the largest marinas in the Netherlands. Zuiderzeemuseum is located in Enkhuizen. Architecturally, the Drommedaris is the oldest building in Enkhuizen, from 1540. Tourists take boat trips to and from the port to Medemblik.
Industrially, Enkhuizen is home to a number of seed production companies, as well as a plastics factory. Tourism is a large part of the economy, too.
The municipality of Enkhuizen consists of the following cities, towns, villages and/or districts: Enkhuizen, Oosterdijk, Westeinde.
The municipal council of Enkhuizen consists of 17 seats, which are divided as follows:
Enkhuizen station offers direct rail service to Hoorn, Amsterdam and Amersfoort, with the journey to Amsterdam Centraal of around an hour.
Furthermore, during summer ferries for pedestrians and cyclists operate between Enkhuizen and Stavoren; between Enkhuizen and Medemblik; and between Enkhuizen and Urk.
It is also possible to drive or cycle across the Houtribdijk to Lelystad, passing under naviduct near the Krabbersgat lock.
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