Also known as ZuidOost, this massive project on the outskirts of Amsterdam proper was built in the 1970s as a new, swanky suburb.

It quickly became the city's first real ghetto, famous for its high crime rate, junkies and problem families. Efforts are now being made to spruce it up, demolish some of the massive gallery flats and replace them with smaller developments of family homes.

For the wikipedia entry, click here

The Bijlmeer is also home to the Heineken Music Hall - a great place to see bands, and the Amsterdam Arena stadium, which calls itself the ArenA.