Queen Beatrix opens Keukenhof

March 18, 2009

Queen Beatrix opens the Keukenhof. Photo: Keukenhof

By baptizing the new Spring Garden tulip Her Majesty Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands officially opened the 60th edition of the international flower exhibition Keukenhof in Lisse.

In this jubilee year the theme ‘USA, New Amsterdam: New York 400’ strengthens the bonds of friendship between the Netherlands and the numerous American visitors, and commemorates discoverer Henry Hudson. 

Four centuries ago Hudson stepped ashore on what is now Manhattan -- on behalf of the Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie, the Dutch East India Company, who in those times ruled the seas -- thus establishing New Amsterdam, later renamed New York.