Brooklyn

Welcome to Brooklyn, one of New York's five boroughs, nicknamed the “Borough of Homes and Churches.” Over the years, it has held on to its authenticity and reputation as a bohemian neighborhood, inhabited by artists attracted by its more affordable housing compared to Manhattan. You've probably seen glimpses of it in movies and TV series, or read about its iconic brownstones – those beautiful townhouses dating back to the 19th century, when this rapidly-growing area was an independent city. Indeed, it wasn't until 1898 that Brooklyn was annexed to New York City, after a very close vote by the residents. Many residents still refer to that decision as the "Great Mistake of 1898." Over the course of the 19th and 20th centuries, the neighborhood welcomed people from all over the world: Russia, Ireland, Italy, Greece – you name it! It thus became, and remains today, a multicultural neighborhood brimming with art and diversity. Just like Manhattan, Brooklyn's story begins with the Dutch. They arrived here, displaced the original inhabitants, the Mohawk tribe, and established the village of Breukelen, the first settlement in what would become New Netherland. The city was renamed Brockland in 1664, when the English took it from the Dutch. Over time, it came to be known as Brocklin, and finally Brooklyn. Today, it's a borough in its own right, attracting visitors thanks to its quaint streets, numerous cultural centers and eclectic, artistic vibe that sets it apart from Manhattan.