The city was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, but until 1763 it was just an Arawak settlement. In that year a Scottish captain, John Philips, founded the city, while on duty in the Dutch navy. Even before the 18th century, the importance of this city and island was realized. Two fortresses were built to defend this capital of international trade. Both of these fortresses are popular tourist attractions these days. Only a few of the original walls are still standing in Fort Amsterdam, [...]