The city began building extensive housing projects during a period of booming economic growth and prosperity around the year 1900 to cope with a skyrocketing population. English style garden villages were built and Nieuwendam is the most beautiful of the lot. Prior to World War II, Tuindorp Nieuwendam was even considered to be the prettiest garden village in Europe specially built for workers. The lively central square is called Purmerplein and it's surrounded by characteristic low level houses and plenty of green areas. The raised gatehouses at the Purmerweg shield the streets behind them from passers-by and traffic creating an intimate atmosphere. Nearby Tuindorp Oostzaan is also picturesque and not without its charms.