architecture tour amsterdam

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Shaped by Water

Amsterdam is a city built on water. Most interesting architecture in the Dutch capital can be found along its waterfronts, from the baroque canal area to artificial archipelagos.

Anneke Bokern

Tour suggestions

Amsterdam: ijburg – living on reclaimed islands, amsterdam: around the central station, custom tour, happy clients.

Anneke was born in Frankfurt (Germany) and has been living in Amsterdam since 2000, writing as a freelance journalist about architecture and design in the Netherlands. Her articles have appeared in lots of newspapers and magazines, such as Mark Magazine, DAMn° Magazine, Domus Germany, Azure, uncube magazine, design report, Baumeister, Bauwelt, HÄUSER… She's also the author of the Marco Polo travel guidebook to Amsterdam. In 2004 she founded architour.

Paul was born in Utrecht (The Netherlands). He graduated from TU Delft with an honourable degree in architecture in 1995. In the following years he worked as an architect for various prominent Dutch architecture firms. He's been guiding tours for architour since 2011, and in 2014 he became partner.

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Amsterdam Architecture Tours, Dutch Guides

Amsterdam walking tours in Holland, Dutch building guides, Architectural walks Netherlands, NL architects visits

Amsterdam Architecture Tours

Dutch Architecture Guides – Building Walks tailor made for groups visiting Holland.

post updated 23 April 2024

Book your city guide on isabelle(at)e-architect.com

Amsterdam Architecture Tour: Exclusive Guided Walks – Introduction

e-architect have architectural tour guides in most of the key cities across Europe.

Our Amsterdam guided tours are all tailored to suit each booking we do not allow for bookings to be joined. Our guided tours in Amsterdam are all exclusive to each client.

Amsterdam Architecture Walking Tours

Should you be planning a conference, an office trip, or university trip in Amsterdam please contact us and we would be happy to take your booking.

Amsterdam is the largest Dutch city and the capital of The Netherlands. It is located roughly in the centre of the country, close to the North Sea. The city has a wealth of good contemporary architecture, all possible to visit on our Amsterdam Architectural Walking Tours .

Recent key openings include the renewed Rijksmuseum building and the exuberant Stedelijk Museum renewal and extension. A major new building on the waterfront is the spectacular EYE Dutch Film Museum by Delugan Meissl Associated Architects:

Famous architects with buildings in the city include Dutch architects OMA, MVRDV, UNStudio, Mecanoo architecten, Gerrit Rietveld, Aldo van Eyck, and also ones from outside The Netherlands such as Kisho Kurokawa, Renzo Piano Building Workshop, Delugan Meissl and EMBT. Other key architects with work in the city include 3XN Architects, de Architekten Cie., Benthem Crouwel, Rafael Vinoly Architects and Bennetts Associates.

Amsterdam Walking Tours

Amsterdam Architectural Tours can focus on historical buildings, contemporary buildings or a mixture of both. The Amsterdam Architecture Tour is typically an introduction to the city’s newest buildings, but it can be tailored to your group’s interests, for example social housing or retail interiors.

We can provide limited advice for Walking Tours of Amsterdam about types and areas of buildings. Our guides for the Amsterdam Architectural Tours should be able to meet your needs and interests.

We can provide information on programme, geographical areas and building types up to a year ahead of your architectural walking tour. For example, a group of architects interested in innovative Dutch housing or office buildings could be provided with tailored information allowing an architectural tour programme to be agreed prior to their visit to The Netherlands.

You can visit DeFlat Kleiburg, Apartment Building , Winner of the Mies van der Rohe 2017 Awards, by Dutch architects NL Architects .

Our guides typically meet visitors at the starting point of their Dutch walking tour, but by request might be able to meet them from the airport or their accommodation.

We can also do combined tours with Rotterdam, the other major city in The Netherlands.

Amsterdam Architecture

Contact e-architect to arrange your architectural tour of the Dutch capital: isabelle(at)e-architect.com / mobile +44 (0)7952 149814.

Architecture Tours

e-architect also organise architecture walking tours in other cities such as Copenhagen, Edinburgh, Berlin, London, Glasgow, Barcelona, Oslo and Paris.

Architecture Walking Tours

Location: Amsterdam, The Netherlands, western Europe

Dutch Capital Architectural Designs

Amsterdam Architecture Center : Arcam Design: René van Zuuk architect Amsterdam Architecture Center

Borneo Sporenburg – Houses Design by various architects Borneo Photos : Dutch capital city dockland residential architecture

WoZoCo Housing for Elderly Design: MVRDV WoZoCo Amsterdam Housing This building was the first housing complex realized by MVRDV. The large housing corporation client wanted 100 units for elderly people with a gallery-type circulation. However, the units did not fit the site in an acceptable way, so MVRDV were invited to solve the problem.

Dutch Architecture

Dutch Architecture – major new building designs

New Amsterdam Architecture

Amsterdam Building Photos from the tour route

Amsterdam Buildings : Historical Buildings

Comments / photos for the Amsterdam Building Tours – Dutch Architecture Guides – Netherlands Architectural Walks by e-architect page welcome

Visiting Amsterdam info – https://www.iamsterdam.com/en , NL

Architecture Tour Amsterdam

Private amsterdam architecture tour.

Amsterdam has been home to many interesting architectural pieces. Join us on a journey of Amsterdam architecture from then to now.

Classic and Modern Architecture

When thinking of Amsterdam, the classic canal houses quickly come to mind. It tells the story of the Dutch merchant and their overseas trade.

Yet, there is a plethora of other buildings waiting to be discovered. From old citadel watchtowers, to spacious warehouses, a windmill, old and contemporary bridges, and a number of modern-day buildings.

On this tour, we don’t only guide show the historic buildings. Your knowledgeable guide / storyteller takes you to ‘KNSM Eiland’, known for its modern architecture. There is a fair bit of walking involved, but we also take you on the tram to make the journey go by a more smooth. We can also take you to for a locally-brewed beer in a windmill turned brewery during the tour at our Architecture Tour Amsterdam.

Project Description

Amsterdam – the old town and 17th century canal belt.

Languages available: NL ENG

Customizable tour:  Yes

Recommended group size per guide: 25

Duration: 4 hours

DESCRIPTION – Amsterdam: The old town and 17th century canal belt

Amsterdam developed from just a few clay houses on terps, to a fishers village to the worlds main trade city in 1650. In the tour we’ll see and hear about the first dikes and wooden houses, the first stone houses, the prototype Amsterdam canal house and the making of the 17th century canal belt. What was planned and was was natural or coicidentally in the making of the canal belt, a Unesco heritage site. How was the canalbelt used? Who lived there and how did they live? Which spatial and architectural development can be determined in the development of what is the largest European 17th century extension still intact?

The ring of canals in Amsterdam was a project for a new “ port city ,” built in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. To expand the city area, reclamation of the marshland was necessary. For this purpose, a network of canals was built – in concentric arches – to the west and south of the historic old town and the medieval harbor. Along the canals are numerous monuments and houses with their characteristic gables. This model of urban expansion – the largest and most coherent of its time – served as a reference throughout the world until the 19th century.

Other tours in Amsterdam

Amsterdam – The old town and 17th century canal belt

Amsterdam – Sluishuis, Sportheldenbuurt and Sluisbuurt

Amsterdam – The School revisited: Spaarndammerbuurt and Houthavens

Amsterdam – Along the North-South line: Zuidas and Central Station area

Amsterdam – Manhattan at the IJ

Amsterdam – IJburg

Amsterdam – Borneo Sporenburg and Sea Front

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• Europe Tours
• Holland Tours
• Amsterdam Tours
• Art and architecture Tours

Amsterdam Art and Architecture Tours 2024/2025

38 superb art and architecture trips in Amsterdam. Planning to go on an art and architecture tour in Amsterdam? Check out 38 great art and architecture trips in Amsterdam supported by 222 reviews. All art and architecture trips are delivered by 10 tour agencies in Amsterdam. Prices range from 37 USD to 10,241 USD and our art and architecture trips last from 1 day and to 45 days.

• Holland Travel Guide

39 Art and architecture tours with 222 Reviews

• Starts Amsterdam, Holland
• Ends Amsterdam, Holland

Best of Holland

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture , Museum and gallery visits , Local culture & Bicycle tours 'data-more-tripid='20948'>+4 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Coach
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,475
• Special Deal (0%): - US$ 10
• Total Price from: US$ 2,465
• Jul 14 10+ seats left
• Aug 11 10+ seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Small group day trip to Rotterdam, Delft and The Hague

• Free cancellation
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Cruise & Sailing, yachting and motor boating Cruise , Sailing, yachting and motor boating , Art and architecture & Luxury 'data-more-tripid='2002'>+2 more
• Accommodation No Accommodation
• Age Range 1-79 yrs

Europe Jewel

• Activities Cultural, sightseeing, food tours & Art and architecture Cultural, sightseeing, food tours , Art and architecture & City sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='37689'>+1 more
• Transport Coach, Boat, Taxi & Train
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,120
• Special Deal (24%): - US$ 742
• Total Price from: US$ 2,378
• Jul 05 Only 2 seats left
• Jul 19 Only 6 seats left

• Starts London, England
• Ends London, England

Classic Europe

• Activities Active and outdoor & Cultural, religious and historic sites Active and outdoor , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='37694'>+1 more
• Transport Coach & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,535
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 719
• Total Price from: US$ 2,816
• Jul 02 Only 1 seat left
• Jul 07 Only 2 seats left

• Starts Prague, Czech Republic
• Ends Paris, France

From Prague to Paris

• Trip customizable
• Activities City sightseeing & Shopping and Markets City sightseeing , Shopping and Markets & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='39061'>+1 more
• Transport Boat, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 8-95 yrs
• Jun 24 10+ seats left
• Jul 01 10+ seats left

European Horizon

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & City sightseeing Cultural, religious and historic sites , City sightseeing , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='20495'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Hostel, Guest House & Resort
• Transport Ferry, Boat & Coach
• Age Range 18-35 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,705
• Special Deal (30%): - US$ 811
• Total Price from: US$ 1,894
• Jun 20 Only 10 seats left
• Jul 02 Only 6 seats left

• Starts Paris, France

European Grandeur

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture , Countryside and village visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='23456'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Villa
• Transport Coach, Private Vehicle, Taxi, Boat & Train
• Sep 06 Only 6 seats left
• Sep 07 10+ seats left

European Trail

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Sightseeing Tours Cultural, religious and historic sites , Sightseeing Tours , Art and architecture & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='20678'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Hostel & Resort
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,325
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 865
• Total Price from: US$ 3,460
• Jun 19 10+ seats left
• Jun 22 Only 5 seats left

• Ends Vienna, Austria

London To Vienna Trail

• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Cultural, religious and historic sites Sightseeing Tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='23048'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hostel & Hotel
• Transport Ferry & Coach
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,615
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 242
• Total Price from: US$ 1,373
• Jun 22 10+ seats left

• Ends Munich, Germany

Essential Western Europe: Amsterdam, Berlin & Epic Views

• Activities City sightseeing & Art & architecture tour City sightseeing , Art & architecture tour & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='37807'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hostel
• Transport Private Vehicle & Train
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,899
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 380
• Total Price from: US$ 1,519
• Jun 16 Only 2 seats left
• Jun 30 Only 1 seat left

Romantic European

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture , Natural landmarks sightseeing , City sightseeing , Honeymoon & Romantic 'data-more-tripid='21129'>+4 more
• Transport Coach, Boat, Private Vehicle & Train
• Jun 29 10+ seats left
• Jun 30 Only 5 seats left

• Ends Corfu, Greece

One Month in Europe: Germany, Italy & Croatia

• Activities Art and architecture & City sightseeing Art and architecture , City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='37805'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hostel, Resort, Villa & Hotel
• Transport Boat, Ferry, Private Vehicle, Train, Bus & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 5,549
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 1,110
• Total Price from: US$ 4,439
• Jun 16 Only 1 seat left

• Ends Athens, Greece

Ultimate Europe: Berlin, Tuscany & Greek Temples

• Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture
• Brochure Price: US$ 6,579
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 1,645
• Total Price from: US$ 4,934

• Starts Bruges, Belgium

Cycle Bruges to Amsterdam

• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Bicycle tours & Art and architecture Bicycle tours , Art and architecture & Museum and gallery visits 'data-more-tripid='31073'>+1 more
• Transport Ferry
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Jun 15 10+ seats left
• Jun 16 10+ seats left

Amsterdam Tour Reviews

• Lyndee Henrichsen
• Virginia Travelers

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Ultimate Amsterdam Architecture Walking Tour, Jordaan’s Gable Stones & Secrets Symbolism

Walking the streets of  Amsterdam , you are entranced by the stunning architecture that sprawls around you. Few cities in the world have such an incredible collection of preserved buildings. And it seems that no matter where you look, little hidden secrets are hiding around every corner. One of those secrets, unique to only a few cities , is Amsterdam’s Gable Stones. These gable stones are intricately carved and often colourfully painted tablets that mark entrances to buildings across the city. embedded into the historical architecture of Amsterdam. Since Amsterdam is such a well-preserved ancient city, these relics of a bygone age have been saved for future generations.

I first discovered these gable stones while walking along the  Bloemgracht  in the  Jordaan Neighbourhood . When I saw the first one, it piqued my interest to look for more, and soon I started to see that almost every other house I passed had these beautiful stone plaques above their doors. Each gable stone portrays a different character, symbol or scene. Delving into the histories and meanings behind the buildings they are housed within. I immediately wanted to know the importance of each one, seeing them as a clue into the family that once lived here. 

About the Tour

After my research, I wanted to create this in-depth post to give you some insight into these incredible treasures of Amsterdam’s architectural past. You can find these gable stones all over the city. And spotting them can be somewhat of an eye-spy adventure. I have marked some of my favourite spots and streets where you can discover the best collection of Amsterdam’s historical gable stones. Some come with me now on our Alternative Amsterdam Walking Tour, the Hidden Secret of Amsterdam’s Gable Stones.

History of Gable Stones

Long before house numbers were the primary method of finding your way around the city, gable stones (or  gevelstenen  in Dutch) denoted a homeowner’s name or business’s purpose. Many people were illiterate then, so these illustrative signs also served a very functional purpose. In the 16th century, if you were looking for a cobbler, you’d look for the gable stone with a shoe. If you were looking for a tavern, you’d search for a barrel. But there are also much more profound, symbolic meanings to these gable stones. Some contain metaphors, puns and, of course, religious imagery. Each one relates in some way to the history of the homeowners. It’s a fascinating way of getting to know more about the city’s history. 

Amsterdam’s Gable Stones

2,500 of these stones can still be found in the Netherlands. And 850 of these stones can be found in Amsterdam alone. In the 19th century, Amsterdam officially employed a numbering system for their streets and houses, and the gable stone fell out of fashion. But in recent years, they have come back into fashion, and new gable stones have been created to bring back modern-day heraldry.

Haarlemmerplein & Haarlemmerdijk

This tour will be primarily located in the Haarlemmerstraat and Jordaan neighbourhoods . We start our tour along Haarlemmerplein and Haarlemmerdijk . The Haarlemmerplein was originally where the city’s horses and wagons would be parked at the city gates. Today, Haarlemmerdijk is one of the most charming streets in the city. Blending modern shops and historic homes together in one trendy area.

#4 Haarlemmerplein

The gable stone found at #4 Haarlemmerplein is located high above the third-floor windows. But even from afar, the golden gilding glints in the sunlight. This stone features a great tortoise and is one of the more modern plaques. The owner, Betty Ramaekers and Klaas Helder had this gevelstenen designed especially for them. Since tortoises always carry their house with them, they are symbolic of the importance of the home. The owners bought the property in 1985, and the date of the purchase is etched onto the stone.

#109 Haarlemmerdijk

The stone tablet at #109 Haarlemmerdijk is an excellent example of a gable stone’s relation to the resident’s heritage. The house was built for Lady Sluis in 1730. Lady Sluis was originally from Zwartsluis (a Dutch province of Overijssel), and although she had been married off and moved to Amsterdam, she still had a great love for her hometown. So she had the cityscape of Zwartsluis etched onto her gable stone. The 17th-century Reformed Church of Zwartsluis is the central feature of the landscape. But other memorable images of her home are also presented to the public. Like boats coming to shore or birds flying over the horizon. Every time she would return home, she would be met with this image, a beautiful memory of her beloved town.

#13 Binnen Dommersstraat

From here, let’s head down  Binnen Dommersstraat  towards the house at #13. The shop on the corner is home to one of the most incredibly detailed stone gables in the city. But it is also a delightful bakery that has served this community for over 300 years! As such, it seems appropriate that the image they chose for their relief was from the Gospel of John, when Jesus produced the miracle of multiplying loaves for the hungry masses.

The bakery is now a trendy coffee shop called  Toki , which still serves up tasty baked goods. The perfect place to take a break with a warm cup of coffee and a sweet treat.

#119 Vinkenstraat

Right across the street from Toki, at  #116 Vinkenstraat,  is a stone gable that dates back to 1768. A large white pelican spreads its wings against a pale blue background, looking down at its young babies sitting in a nest below. At first glance, the babies appear to be drinking drops of blood dripping down from the breast of their mother. And in 1768, that is exactly what people thought baby pelicans did eat. Many thought a mother would pierce her own breast to feed her young because that’s what it looked like to the naked eye. But in reality, the pelican is actually reaching into their bill, where they keep fresh fish, and this is actually what the babies eat. 

Myth of the Pelican

But ancient Europeans didn’t take biology in school. So they could only make assumptions from what they saw. From this legend, the pelican because a symbol of self-sacrifice and charity. Some apparently even believed that the pelican could bring its deceased young back to life by giving them its blood leading many to draw a comparison between the pelican and Jesus, who gave his blood to his followers. So anytime you see a pelican, this often will be associated with a religious place or someone who was devoted to god.

#98 Haarlemmerdijk

Continue east along  Vinkenstraat  and back to  Haarlemmerdijk  until you reach #98. I adore this little scene above the doorway to #98 Haarlemmerdijk. This tablet shows a shepherd casually lounging on the hillside, looking after his flock of sheep. His trustee dog, with his back, turned to the viewer, is intently watching the sheep. The etching was carved by famed Dutch painter  Nicolaas Berchem.  Berchem was a popular painter during the Dutch Golden era and was best known for these types of pastoral landscapes.

Originally the house marked the entrance to #101, but when that house was set to be demolished and turned into a post office, the tablet was removed. It was kept safe, and when the time came to reinstall, it was moved to #98.

#47 Haarlemmerdijk

Above the most darling Fleurmonde flower shop is a beautifully painted nautical frieze. It features what looks like a big blue fish. But upon closer inspection, it is actually a large porpoise. The porpoise is diving down into choppy waters. Perhaps swimming during a great storm. During the middle ages, porpoises were known to be spotted swimming in the canals in Amsterdam. And while they are rarely seen today, there have been a few spottings as recent as 2020, when the boat traffic in the canals died down due to Covid-19. Two dolphins are seen carved on either end, framing the entire scene. Another nod to the nautical nature of the city.

#33 Haarlemmerdijk

At #33, you can see an old stone relief dating back to 1740! It depicts Jupiter , also known as the Greek God Zeus. You know it’s him not only by the icons in the scene but also by the huge “Jupiter” lettering on the bottom of the carving. Jupiter is nude but wrapped in a large swathe of fabric. He holds a bundle of lightning bolts in his hand, a stern look on his face. The position of his arm makes it look like he is ready for battle. Jupiter’s trustee eagle sits peacefully at his feet. Jupiter is associated with healing, good fortune, and miracles, so we might imagine that perhaps a healer or apothecary once stood here.

#107 Haarlemmerstraat

Crossing over the large bridge, we head into the eastern part Haarlemmerstraat . As someone who loves astrology, the house at #107 really spoke to me. You’ll see cheerful dancing figures in the upper right corner above the doorway. These little cherubs are holding two black-painted symbols in their hands. These represent the zodiac signs for Cancer and Taurus . But the two children, with identical faces, also represent the zodiac sign of Gemini. It’s safe to assume that these symbols relate to the birthdates of the children or the couple who lived in this house.

#20 Buiten Brouwersstraat

Let’s take a quick detour north along Buiten Brouwersstraat to #20. The incredibly detailed stone relief depicted here features a huge, three-mast ship. The name “ TS Chip China ” is emblazoned on the bottom of the tablet. Since we know the entire name of the ship, we know a fair bit about it. It was built in 1676 for the Dutch East India Company. Despite the name, the boat mainly travelled to what is now modern-day Jakarta in Indonesia. Perhaps one of the ships’ captains once resided in this grand house.

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#2 Binnen Brouwersstraat

Take a short detour south along  Binnen Brouwersstraat  to #2. This adorable stone tablet features this enormous beaver, chewing on a tree almost to the point of falling in half. Yet, we are catching him at the moment just before he achieves his end goal. The wording under the tablet says “Castor Tenax 1993,” which translates to “ the persistent beaver .”

But the date on the tablet is also of great importance. The entire concept for the gable’s design refers to the tumultuous process of renovations the poor owner undertook when he bought the property in 1990. His aim was to move right in. But he was met with problem after problem. First, a large fire. And then many long and arduous delays in the repairs required and remodelling. The building wasn’t deemed livable until 1993. Three long years after his initial purchase! But he never gave up, just like our persistent little beaver who kept working hard. To eventually achieve its goal.

#66 Haarlemmerstraat

Head back to the Haarlemmerstraat and walk until you reach the impossibly narrow building located at #66. The stone gable above the doorway is as wide as the door. It features a shield with the image of a red lion rearing up on its hind legs. Above the lion is a red crown sitting atop the shield. But this is not a king’s crown, but a duke’s. If you look closely, you can see the fur edging around the brim of the crown made from the hair of a stoat. The words under the crest state that this is the coat of arms of the province of Limburg.

But curiously, we know this tablet to date back to the 17th century when the coat of arms of Limburg was only established in 1886. Before there was Limburg, there were the Lords of Gulik, whose lands would go on to be the south of Limburg, and this was their crest. Today, if you look at the official, you can still see the red lion incorporated into the design of the larger four-cornered shield, representing each part of the province.

#16 Droogbak

Continue north until you reach the island’s edge. From here, walk east along Haarlemmer Houttuinen , which turns into Droogbak street. Here we will stop at #16. The gorgeous sculpted carving on the curved stone plinth is one of the most intricate designs in the city. It was made in 1742 for compass maker Pieter de Jong . Look closely, and the carving features a large compass on a decorative wooden plinth. Amsterdam was a hub for shipbuilders and skippers. A good repair shop close to the harbour was an important feature of the city.

On either side of the compass are two hourglasses. Hourglasses were invented around the 12th century. They were a key feature of a sailing ship as they were used onboard to help time the ship’s watches. A ribbon above the entire piece has the name of the compass maker emblazoned upon it.

#59 Haarlemmerstraat

Head back south to Haarlemmerstraat and make a stop at #59. Above the second-floor window is a gorgeous shield with an array of flowers and foliage exploding from behind it. In the centre of the shield is a large crowned stork. He stands with his one leg raised and a large eel caught in his beak. The stork crest was installed around the 16th century to symbolize good luck. Often good luck symbols were popular icons to put on the houses of sailors to ensure they returned home unharmed.

Binnen Vissersstraat & Brouwersgracht

The name “ Binnen Vissersstraat ” is Dutch for Fishing street . It was named as such because this roadway ends at the mouth of the canal. From this street, fishermen would bring in their day catch and take it to the marketplace.

#4 Binnen Vissersstraat

Turn south down Binnen Vissersstraat, where at #4 you’ll find a funny stone plaque. The tablet depicts the very house you are standing in front of. Beside the house is a large green tree. Look closely, and you’ll see gold coins growing from the tree and a man collecting the coins in a wheelbarrow below. The tablet was designed in the 1980s during the restoration of the house. The restoration was a costly one. To make light of the situation, the owner had this stone gable designed to reference the fact he wished “money grew on trees.”

#9 Binnen Vissersstraat

At #9, we see an even more modern design, made in 1997 for Barbara Jonckheer when she retired. Jonckheer was an essential figure in the Amsterdam Bureau of Conservation. Her efforts to restore and conserve art throughout the city was her life’s work. And although you might not know her name, so many historical buildings that you will admire along the way no doubt have been touched by her in some way. The image of a stately young spire, bowing with his feathered cap, is a way of showing reverence for the great woman.

Brouwersgracht

Turn down Brouwersgracht and head back west. Gracht is the Dutch word for Canal , and Brouwers means brewery . The name came from the 16th century when this area of town was home to many beer, gin and liqueur breweries. Many houses along this street still have their large wooden shutters, which identified the homes as warehouses back in the day. The Brouwersgracht was voted the most beautiful street in Amsterdam, so take in the sights as we walk along.

#52 Brouwersgracht

At #52 Brouwersgracht, we find the old home of furniture designer Andries Tenck. Tenck bought the house in 1759, as indicated on the stone gable. The tablet depicts how this ingenious chair-maker could turn a simple wooden piece of furniture into an extravagant fantasy. Below the Louis XV-style chair on the right are the words “ nooyt volmaakt ” which means “ never perfect .” A classic moniker of artists who are never happy with their work. Such is the plight of the creative.

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#28 Binnen Wieringerstraat

Make a quick detour up  Binnen Wieringerstraat  to see the house at #28.  De Visser  is the inscription underneath the gable, which translate to, “ the Fisherman .” And right there on the front, we can see an 18th-century fisherman dressed in traditional gare. He is seen holding a large fishing spear in one hand and his catch of the day in the other. In the foreground stands two stacks of barrels on either side and a smoking pot on the right. But how could a lowly fisherman buy a house such as this? Well, the answer lies in the contents of the barrels. The answer? Whale blubber.

Whaling in the Netherlands began in the 17th century when the Dutch discovered the artic fishing grounds. At the industry’s peak, about 25% of ships in the Dutch fleet were whaling vessels. Whale oil was hugely profitable in the 17th and 18th centuries, as they could derive whale oil from the fat in the mammal’s body. Before electricity, oil lamps were the only way people could light their homes, street lamps and stoves. So oil was like gold dust. While you could get oil from livestock, it stank and produced thick smoke, while whale oil, on the other hand, burned bright and clear! Whale oil is made by boiling strips of blubber harvested from whales. And this is exactly what is depicted in the stone gable on the front of the house. What a story!

#76 Brouwersgracht

Back along Brouwersgracht, make your way to #76. You’ll need to look down to see the stone tablet above the basement door. Unlike the other on this tour, which is usually above the front door, this one is a little more hidden away.

The scene depicts the various stages of making wine. On the left side of the frame, the grapes are plucked from the vines, then in the centre, we can see someone stomping the grapes with their feet inside a large barrel. The last vignette depicts the wine poured from the barrel into a glass. Ready to be enjoyed by the public! As we are back again on Brewery street, this is a good indication that this building would have once been a wine distillery. I love the design of this carving. It feels very stylized and different from everything else we’ve seen.

#114 Brouwersgracht

The  gevelstenen  at  #114 Brouwersgracht  is unique because it is three-dimensional. It literally jumps out at us from the facade of the old brick building. The brightly painted blue and red emperor’s crown is flanked by the warehouse’s black wooden shutters. 

In the 15th century, even though Amsterdam was just a fishing village, the emperor awarded them the right to use the  emperor’s crown.  Having the right to use the emperor’s crown was a big deal, as it acted as a means of showing you were protected by the emperor and his army. Amsterdam was given the right to use the emperor’s crown thanks to the large amounts of money it loaned  Emperor Maximillian I  during the Hook and Cod wars in the 15th century. They might have just been a fishing village, but fishing brought in money, and the merchants who traded in fish brought vast amounts of gold. 

#133 Brouwersgracht

Cross over the  Papiermolensluis  to reach the opposite side of the canal. From here, you can make your way to  #133 Brouwersgracht . Of all the animals you might imagine seeing depicted in Amsterdam, a hippo would perhaps be the last of your guesses, and yet here it is! In fact, the inscription beneath the stone carving states that this is “ the hippo in the canal. “

Jan Joost Peskens  was the house’s first occupant and was obsessed with hippos. In his early childhood, he had read all about them in a book by biologist Hillenius. To Peskens, they seemed like mythological creatures and yet somewhere out there, they were real! His love for the hippo never wained, and for this birthday, after purchasing the house, his wife had this stone gable made special for him. It was unveiled on the big day, and even though he might never see a real hippo himself, he would be greeted by this friendly face every day upon his return home.

#163 Brouwersgracht

On the corner of the house at  #163 Brouwersgracht,  you can find the sign from an old grainery that once stood here. The grainery was built in 1729, and although the original building has been demolished, the house sign has been preserved. In the carving, you can see the process by which people would come to buy their corn and grain. They would fill up this wooden barrel with grains and then use the attached metal bow to smooth and level the grain on top. Ensuring each measure of grain was properly levelled, and each barrel load contained the same amount. Pretty ingenious invention for the 16th century.

#3 Palmgracht

Make your way west along  Palmgracht . The Palmgracht, also known as the Palm Canal, was once waterfilled before the 1850s. During those years, many of the Jordaan neighbourhood canals were filled in due to the poor water quality and the need to create more livable space for the increasing population. The name “palm canal” is odd as palm trees could never grow here in Amsterdam. But Dutch sailors and merchants who worked in the Indonesian Dutch colonies had come to adore the beauty of these fantastic plants. And although they couldn’t bring them home with them, their love of the tropical plant lived on.

This is exemplified at  #3 Palmgracht , where a palm tree is represented in the stone gable. The palm tree was not just a beauty to look at but also a plant that could thrive against all odds. Not wind, nor drought or even the greatest of storms could destroy the mighty palm. So many people use the palm tree as a symbol to represent triumph over adversity.

#60 Palmgracht

Towards the street’s western end, you’ll find stone gables aplenty. At #60, we can find the two golden nightingales. The nightingale is frequently associated with creativity and related to nature’s purity. The tablet was added around the 20th century when the house was owned by architect E. Van Houten . Undoubtedly, creativity and mother nature’s inspirations are important to architects and perhaps why Van Houten selected the nightingales as his house emblem. 

#68 Palmgracht

At  #68 Palmgracht , we find the brilliant image of the Hindu creature  Rakshasa . Rakshasa is a mythological demon or goblin. Rakshasas have the power to change their shape at will and appear as animals, monsters, or in the case of female Rakshasa, as beautiful women. Many immigrants to Amsterdam came from Dutch Indonesia. And they brought with them their vibrant culture and history. This Rakshasa was designed to replicate the one embedded in the front of the medieval palace of  Singosari , twelve kilometres north of the Indonesian city  Malang .

Be sure to get up close and personal with the carving to make out all the tiny details in the sculpture. You can see the little faces hiding within the Rakshasa’s headdress. She sits with one hand projecting outwards towards the street. The Rakshasa bares her fangs and holds a large club in her other hand. She looks quiet and menacing. These symbols were often placed outside the home in order to protect it from evil.

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#63 Palmgracht

Cross the street and head over to  #63 Palmgracht . This house bears one of the oldest stone tablets in the city.  De Blom Kool , or the “ Flowering Cabbage ” tablet, was installed here in 1679.  Willem Harmensz Kool  owned the house and worked in the  Waag  as a weight-bearer. In the 17th century, numbers #61, #63 and #65 all contained the same cauliflower symbols, but today this is the only one that remains. The cabbage was his house emblem, as “Kool” means cabbage.

The Waag was the “weigh house” and was originally a city gate and part of the walls of Amsterdam. A  weigh house  did literally what it sounds like, weighing out various goods brought into the city, which required taxation. And Kool, as a weight-bearer, was charged with ensuring all taxes were paid in full. 

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#73 Palmgracht

At #73, you’ll find the House of the Radishes . Another vegetable-themed house! But unlike the previous house with a history dating back hundreds of years, this home’s gable was designed in 1973. The owner loved the song ‘ The Radish waltz,’ written and sung by Louis Davids . And when the house was renovated in 1973, they added this vibrant new gable onto the brick facade.

Lindengracht

Take a walk south along Lijnbaansgracht , beside the scenic canal. Continue along until you reach Lindengracht .

#211 Lindengracht

At  #211 Lindengracht  is where the 17th-century residents of Amsterdam would have come to purchase their tobacco. The business was marked by this stone plaque featuring an enslaved man holding a large tobacco leaf in his hand. On the ground are three rolls of tobacco, and in the background, we can find two woven baskets used to harvest the tobacco leaves. During the 17th century, they called this stone gable the “ Tobacco Moor .” But the term Moor is now considered a derogatory word applied to dark-skinned Muslims of North Africa. These men were enslaved by the Dutch Europeans and used to farm the tobacco fields. And while the Netherlands banned the slave trade in 1814, memories of their cruelty remain etched on the stones of the street even to this day.

#160 Lindengracht

Above the door to the old cafe on the corner of Lindengracht and Tweede Goudsbloemdwarsstraat is the most splendid little vignette carved above the portal. Unlike the other tablets made of stone, this piece is made of wood. And miraculously, has been preserved here since the 18th century. It marked the entrance to an old wine cellar, as seen in the carving by stacks of barrels lining the left side of the frame. The most curious and wide-eyed cat looks out towards us on the right side, hiding among the vine of plump grape trees. Cats are often used as symbols of femininity. Many people interpret this as a sign that in here this establishment the woman was the one truly in charge!

#73 Lindengracht

Recently the stone tablet on #73 Lindengracht has been restored to its former glory. This house was a former blacksmith shop in the 19th century. Marking the spot is the stone tablet showing a suspended horseshoe. The horseshoe is the most iconic symbol of the blacksmith. The word for blacksmith is written in Dutch below the horseshoe. The large black arched doorways on either side of the lower level are also clear signs of an old horse barn once being here. Large doors were required to provide access to the horse and carriages, which often would come here to be repaired, just like taking your car into the auto shop!

#55 Lindengracht

Above the doorway to #55 is a stone gable featuring a great green tree. But instead of bearing fruit like apples or pears, hanging in its branches are silver painted fish swimming amongst the leaves. Just below the swimming fish is a nest, but within it, a bundle of eels instead of birds. Almost unsurprisingly, the plaque was designed in the acid-riddled 1970s. Even the text below the icons is subverted, written backwards, only to be read with a mirror. 

Palingoproer

But the scene isn’t derived from a drug-induced dream. Instead, it is a reference to a famous historical event, the Palingoproer , which occurred here along these canals in 1886. The Palingoproer or ‘ the Eel riot ‘ started when the police attempted to stop the Jordaan neighbourhood’s citizens from playing their favourite eel-pulling game. Eel pulling was an old Amsterdam pastime where a rope was stretched over the canal, and a live eel was hung from it. Players had to sail their boats underneath the rope to try and grab the slippery eel without falling into the water.

The game was deemed as “ cruel public entertainment” by the government of the time, and the police went to put a stop to it. None of the authorities could have imagined just how popular this event was, and just for fiercely the people of Amsterdam would fight to preserve their right to go eel-pulling. When the police started to force spectators to disperse, a riot broke out. In the fighting, 26 people were killed by police. The fish and eels in the gable stone here are meant to commemorate the uprising. And perhaps remind the authorities of just how important culture is to the Dutch people, no matter how silly or frivolous.

#53 Lindengracht

Above the windows at #53 Lindengracht is the gable of Barend Wargaren . Wargaren lived here in 1742. The name “ Warren ” means “ war of yarn ,” and the image we see depicted in the stone plaque is the allegory based on the name. On the left is a monkey sitting at a spinning wheel with the help of a small dog who aids him on the twisting wheel. On the right sits another monkey on a stool. He also tries to twist a yarn spool, but he uses a wooden reel.

Although the monkey on the right looks like he has spun more wool onto his spool, his method creates a weaker product. You twist two or more single threads together by using the twisting wheel and spinning wheel together, thus creating a stronger yarn. This takes more time, but diligence will always win the war over foolish haste. That is the moral of the story.

#5 Lindengracht

At #5 Lindengracht we find a stone tablet featuring the most iconic symbol of the Netherlands; the windmill . On either side of the mill are two bundles of yellow stacks of wood awaiting their turn to be sawed inside. Before the 19th century, Amsterdam, and this canal in particular, was home to dozens of small wind-powered sawmills. Back then, this area of town wasn’t a hub of residential living. This area once lay behind the city walls and was considered the rural outskirts. Therefore, it was common to have windmills along the ramparts as it was a halfway point between farmer’s fields and the city’s marketplaces where milled wood could be sold.

Prinsengracht

The Prinsengracht is a regal canal named after the Prince of Orange. It is the fourth of the four main canals belonging to the famous canal belt. And as such many of the houses along this canal are some of the most beautiful.

#36 Prinsengracht

The soaring facade at  #36 Prinsengracht  is a stunning example of the best elements of Amsterdam’s iconic architecture. One of these characteristics is the beautiful neck-gable roof ornaments in many Dutch canal houses. Also displayed on the facade of the house are “ oeils-de-boeuf ” windows. These windows, also called “ox eye” windows are small round windows that flank either side of the attic that resemble the eyes of an animal looking down on the city below. The fantastical house dates back to 1650, as marked on the stone carving towards the top of the house. 

Above the 3rd floor is where we can find our stone tablet, which depicts a rich blue sack filled with white feathers. In the 17th century, the house went by the name ‘ als daer De Veersack in de gevel staet ,’ which means, “there where the feather sack is in the façade.” The building was initially used as a feather bed warehouse during the 17th and 18th centuries. After closing down, it was later used as a sugar and chocolate factory.

#60 Prinsengracht

On the front of the house at #60 is a simple oblong stone depicting an upside-down bowler hat. It even has the words “BOLHOED,” meaning bowler hat, written on the sign. The building was previously home to a vegetarian restaurant named “De Bolhoed,” but it has since closed down. Hopefully, a new restaurant will move in and keep the bowler head name going!

#46 Tuinstraat

Turn west along Tuinstraat until you reach #46. At this house was where you could once have come to buy your soap. On the 17th-century gable stone, you can read the inscription that says, “ IN DE ASWERCKER, ” which means “ In the ashes-worker . Carved into the stone gable is the image of a worker, piling up a series of large copper barrels. But what do ashes and barrels have to do with soap? Well, I’m glad you asked!

Inside these barrels, the soapmaker would have stored Potash . Potash is made from plant or wood ashes that have been soaked in a “pot” of water. Potash is one of the most ancient ways of making soap, a technique that dates back to the Bronze age. Ashes were transformed into lye, which is still to this day a key ingredient in soap-making. In the sixteenth century, the Dutch were one of the largest soap suppliers and consumers. And the warehouses all along this stretch of roadway would have been used to produce these sought-after products.

Egelantiersstraat 

Walk one street south to find yourself walking along  Egelantiersstraat . ‘ Egelantiers ‘ was a chamber of rhetoric, also known as a dramatic society, that rose up in this area of Amsterdam in 1517. The symbol for the organization was the Eglantine Rose or Sweet Briar Rose in the shape of a cross. It was a symbol of love, and their slogan was “In Love, Flourishing.” It’s no surprise to find an actor enamoured with romance, but the actual reference to the rose was from a beloved poem  by Beatrijs . In this poem, two young lovers meet secretly by the wild roses.

These dramatic societies were closely connected with political leaders. Even back then, the government saw how theatre could be an instrument of propaganda and worked with the groups as an early form of public relations for the city. Many of the stone tablets on these streets are very dramatic, inspired by the theatrical movements in this part of the city.

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#52 Egelantiersstraat

As we’ve mentioned before, not everyone could read back in the middle ages; that’s why we have these stone tablets. To give visual examples of the professions found within. But in addition to not being able to read, many poorer citizens did not know how to write either. So what did these people do when they needed to write a letter or sign a legal document? In this situation, you would find a writing master!

The stone gable at house #52 Egelantiersstraat is where the old writing master once operated. You can see a goose feather quill in his hand as the pen master sets out to write on the parchment paper below. This tablet dates back to 1618 and was made for Hendrick Theunisz . In addition to writing for people, Theunisz would offer writing lessons out of this shop. Teaching the public to write so they wouldn’t always have to employ his services.

#24 Egelantiersstraat

The narrow entrance at  #24 Egelantiersstraat  features one of the most elaborate and beautiful stone gables in town. The old stone displays the words “ ANSLO’S HOFJE ” below the shield, which crowns the insignia.  Cornelis Claesz Anslo  was a wealthy cloth merchant and Mennonite pastor who lived here on Egelantiersstraat. Anslo was actually good friends with Rembrandt, and after Anslo’s wife’s death, Rembrandt painted a picture of the two after her untimely death.

But Anslo wasn’t one to hoard his wealth and opened up an almshouse here in Amsterdam. There, he offered free housing to the elderly as early as 1626. The stone tablet’s shield is surrounded by acanthus leaves. The symbol in the centre is the emblem of the house of Anslo and features a circle with three arrows piercing it, topped with a golden crown.

#8 Egelantiersgracht

The beautiful brick house at #8 Egelantiersgracht features a series of stone gables set into the friezes above the first floor. The two tablets in the center are inscribed with the date the house was built in 1649. On either corner of the building are two different carvings. The right corner features a brewer stirring a large cauldron. On the left is the image of Saint Willibrordus . Saint Willibrordus famously was able to turn a barrel of beer into a barrel of wine.

In the 17th century, when you combined these two symbols, people knew this was a sign that you’d find a tavern inside! During the 17th century, beer was drunk with every meal, not water like we drink today. Back then, water wasn’t potable, and beer was considered the safest to drink as it had been processed. Even children drank beer with every meal! But thankfully, beer in the middle ages only contained an alcohol content of 2%. 

#50 Egelantiersgracht

Above the window at #50 Egelantiersgracht is a beautiful red rose brushed with gold leaf. Around the rose petals is the inscription ‘ In Love Bloeyende, ‘ which means “ In Love, Flourishing .” Which, as we learned before, is the motto of the Eglantiers.

#72 Egelantiersgracht

A few doors down at #72, on the corner of Egelantiersgracht and Tweede Egelantiersdwarsstraat , is the large cartouche of the brilliant golden sun. The brick cafe was originally a coach house in the 17th century designed by famous architect Philip Vingboons . The three houses along the street were named the sun, the moon and the stars. And each one originally had a stone tablet depicting its namesake. During renovations in the 1970s, the cartouche on #72 was removed from its original location nearer the roof and moved to the lower level, above the doorway, so more people could appreciate this ancient stone gable.

#15 Egelantiersgracht

Crossing the canal over the Hilletjesbrug , make your way to #15 Egelantiersgracht . Here, you’ll find an 18th-century stone tablet featuring a carpenter hard at work. In his hand, he works with his chisel, and in the background, you can see various other tools of the trade. The square frame in the upper right-hand corner of the carving was a design every carpenter needed to create to be accepted into the carpenters guild. It was seen as proof of their competency. So when you see this symbol on a carpenter’s house, you know they are the real deal!

Bloemgracht

Walking along the Prinsengracht over to the Bloemgracht . The Bloemgracht is named after the ‘ Bolwerk de Bloem ‘ windmill, which once stood here in 1614. The iconic windmill remained here until 1878, when it was moved to Haarlemmerweg. In the 17th century, the Bloemgracht was one of the most popular areas for artists and craftsmen to live and work. The road was full of dyers who used the nearby canal to rinse their fabrics. Willem Blaeu started his cartography workshop here in 1635. A large print shop was built in 1672, and later in the 19th century, a famous graphic trading house was opened.

But most famously, the painter Rembrandt had a studio on the Bloemgracht in the 1660s. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the canal became a hotspot for sugar factories. But these disappeared after WWII when the area transformed into a residential neighbourhood. And today it remains one of the most picturesque in the city!

Bloemgracht and Leliedwarsstraat

On the corner of Bloemgracht and Leliedwarsstraat , we can find the old stone tablet of ‘ The Dove and the Olive Branch .’ The larger-than-life image of the dove stands perched atop an engraving of Noah’s arc. In 1614, the land here was purchased by carpenter Franchoijs Gisep . Gisep built two matching houses side by side. Just as Noah had two of each animal brought aboard his boat, Gisep had two houses. The houses were named the “ Dove ” and the “ Oliver Branch ,” respectively. Gisep had individual stone gables created for each house, but these were lost over the years.

In the 20th century, when the houses were joined together to form one large property, the new owner wanted to pay homage to the history of the home. So he created this blended stone tablet that ties the entire story together. Another example of modern-day owners still preserving the historic past of these old buildings.

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#15 Bloemgracht

Above the windows on the second floor is the 17th-century tablet depicting an armoured knight carrying a large spiked club. The knight is dressed in the armour of the Magnus of Schagen gentlemen . Schagen is a city northwest of Amsterdam whose coat of arms is depicted in the tablet. The text on the inscription beneath the image reads, “ the knight and the rose .”

#19 Bloemgracht

The  Pelican Book House  can be found a few doors down at  #19 Bloemgracht . We have seen the pelican’s image used as a symbol to represent the blood of Jesus Christ previously. But here, it is even more glorious, with the image of the sun of righteousness enlightening the entire scene. Below the bird is a cube with the symbols of  Rosicrucianism . These are a series of lettered roses surrounding a golden cross. The word “ Rosicrucianism ” literally translates to “rose cross.” Rosicrucianism was based on Christian mysticism with occult traditions. The stone pelican was used to mark the entrance to their  mystic library .

The entire stone is encircled by a bright green snake swallowing its tail. This is a classical symbol signifying the cycle of birth and death. The snake swallowing its own tail also represents the knowledge of good and evil. In Rosicrucianism, the collection of knowledge in their mystic libraries was one of the most important touchstones of the order.

#29 Bloemgracht

As the street was home to the Rosicrucian order , we can find even more mythical symbols abound. This unicorn tablet at #29 Bloemgracht was designed in the 20th century. It features the noble, rearing up against the brilliant golden sun. The sun’s rays emanate from the twisted horn, almost as if the sun is sprouting out of the unicorn’s head.

In the background, a beautiful waterfall flows down around a peaceful forest. The flowing water represents the symbol of everlasting life. Classically the blood of a unicorn was said to give the drinker everlasting life. And in mysticism, many people would seek out a unicorn horn to create the elixir of life, which was said to give the drinker everlasting life.

#59 Bloemgracht

This elegant stone tablet is a modern creation made in honour of the woodworking company, ‘ Fa Hassink en Zn .’ The shop was opened in 1934 and remained here for over 50 years, closing in 1995. The swirling wood curl from the gilded block plane in the center wraps around the frame, almost tying it up in a pretty bow!

#77 & 81 Bloemgracht

The house symbols at #77 and #81 Bloemgracht are the largest and most impressive of all the plaques we’ve seen. Each scene depicted above the entrances features the same theme: “The old sower” and “The young sower.”

At #77, we can see a farmer sowing seeds from a simple satchel along his freshly ploughed field. A small house is featured in the right-hand corner, and a small tree sits off to the left in the distance. The houses along this street were once sugar refineries, and these stone tablets were commissioned for their warehouses. As they were created during the baroque period, the stone gables’ edges are decorated in ornate floral curls.

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The tablet at #81 features a young farmer, perhaps the son of the man featured in the previous frame. In this scene, the house on the right is much larger and surrounded by a few other homes. We can also see that the tree has grown substantially. This little vignette is perhaps a vision of the future. The hard work the father did paid off and provided a brighter future for his son. A good message for the warehouse workers to see on their way to work.

#87, 89 & 91 Bloemgracht

The enormous old warehouse stretching from #87 to #91 Bloemgracht was once the “pearls of the Jordaan” neighbourhood. The original warehouse was built in the 17th century in this beautiful Renaissance style. It was called the De Drie Hendricken , or House of the Three Hendricks . Hendrick Roelofsz was the architect of the building, and atop each of the three matching buildings, he placed a different image to denote one from the other.

The gable stones depict a townsman, a farmer and a sailor. These characters represented the three distinct parts of the Dutch economy; city, country and sea. The townsman is dressed in expensive finery, knee braces, a large billowing cloak, a wide-brimmed hat, and a pair of shoes with golden buckles. The farmer can be seen carrying a spade in his right hand and a stick with a basket on his right shoulder. Finally, we have the sailor depicted carrying a basket in his hands, an anchor at his feet, and a ship sailing in the background. After the warehouses closed down, the building was converted into three individual townhomes.

The Jordaan is full of more than its fair share of hidden symbols. And these stone gables are just one of the many hidden histories that lurk along the cobblestone-lined canals. I hope you enjoyed this tour and saw some amazing things along the way! Let me know in the comment how you liked the tour and anything else you’d like me to uncover for your next trip to Amsterdam!

Happy Travels, Adventurers.

References: gevelstenenvanamsterdam.nl | amsterdamsebinnenstad.nl

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Amsterdam City Guide: 25 Places to See in the Capital of The Netherlands

• Written by Virginia Duran
• Published on February 28, 2022

Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Its origins lie in the 12th century when fishermen living along the banks of the River Amstel built a bridge across the waterway near the IJ, then a large saltwater inlet. Most of the city’s territory is below sea level and therefore it lies on land that has been reclaimed from the water.

Amsterdam is all about practical urban planning, amazing cycling infrastructure, tulip-lined canal bridges, and old merchant houses that tilt at impossible angles. I visited Amsterdam again last year and discovered some new places.

1. WoZoCo / MVRDV

Ookmeerweg + Reimerswaaltstraat

This iconic building by MVRDV – the first housing complex realized by the firm – fulfills 100 living units for elderly people and was completed in 1997. Its very powerful image is the result of urban policy: the architects couldn't place all the flats in a linear building, because there was a height restriction. Thus the overhang volumes: all the apartments that couldn't fit into the linear volume were hung on the northern side, with an east-west orientation.

2. NEMO Science Museum / Renzo Piano

Oosterdok 2

Surrounded by water, this science and technology museum has a ship-like form and pre-oxidized copper-clad façades, referencing the surrounding harbor areas. The museum has its origins in 1923 but its present building dates to 1997. A pedestrian ramp leads up onto the building’s sloping roof that serves as a public piazza for visitors and as a social focus for the neighborhood. Don't miss the beautiful skyline views from its rooftop. 

3. ARCAM / René van Zuuk

Prins Hendrikkade 600

This art gallery completed in 2003 is a beautifully compact, sculptural structure arranged in three levels. The building is covered in coated aluminum that flows from bottom to roof and over, all around the building on opposite sides. A special feature is the sculptural glass facade at the main entrance.

4. Hermès Store / MVRDV

Pieter Cornelisz Hooftstraat 94

P.C. Hooftstraat, a delightful little street dating mostly to the 19th century, is nowadays known for its high-end flagship stores. In 2016, MVRDV was appointed to revamp this brick block and the result couldn’t be more thoughtful. Using hundreds of specially-engineered glass bricks and a transparent high-strength sealant, the façade was made more permeable whilst still mimicking the original building design and evoking the vernacular aspects of the area. When Hermès moved in earlier in 2019, they further enhanced the space by removing a blank wall from behind the upper half of the facade (making the interior entirely visible from the outside) and adding special brand culture touches (like the delicate leather handrails of the main staircase)

5. Strawinskylaan Bicycle Parking / wUrck

Pr. Irenestraat 45

Strawinskylaan bicycle parking, completed in 2018, is located opposite Amsterdam Zuid railway station. With a capacity of 3,750 spaces, it became the largest underground bike parking in the Dutch capital. Providing good parking facilities for bikes is an important part of the municipal strategy to guarantee sustainable and comfortable access to the public transport node while increasing the quality of the public space.

6. Rijksmuseum Asian Pavilion / Cruz y Ortiz Arquitectos

Museumstraat 1

This magnificent building by Pierre Cuypers has been dedicated to arts and history since its completion in 1885. The newest addition – the Asian pavilion – was designed by Cruz y Ortiz and opened in 2013. The museum’s two inner courtyards have now been opened up, with the removal of galleries that were added in the 1950s and 1960s. A two-part atrium has been created by sinking the floor of the two courtyards below ground level and connecting them via an underground zone beneath the original passageway through the building. Notable paintings include The Milkmaid (1657) by Vermeer.

7. Stedelijk Museum / Benthem Crouwel Architekten

Museumplein 10

The existing building of the Stedelijk Museum was created in 1895 by the municipal architect A.W. Weismann. It is celebrated for its majestic staircase, grand rooms, and natural lighting, which were the base points for the 2012 redesign by Benthem Crouwel Architects . The contrast of the new building versus the old building is obvious from the outside but inside the museum, you hardly notice strolling from the new building into the old. The museum's collection includes modern art, contemporary art, and design.

8. Silodam / MVRDV

This new housing building is located next to two former grain warehouses (silos) that have been converted into housing. The 157 flats, business units, and public spaces in the Housing Silo are compressed within a 10 story high and 20 meters deep urban envelope. The apartments, rented and owned in different sizes, are stacked legibly on the façade as each of them is expressed differently. Tours are available from 3€ sending an email to [email protected] 2 weeks in advance.

9. Eye Film Museum / Delugan Meissl Associated Architects

IJpromenade

Both the Eye Film Institute’s concept and urban implementation are based on an overlay of two creative disciplines: reality and fiction, illusion and real experience. The building concept becomes the storyboard, architecture, and scenography. By delivering a dynamic interplay, the building’s assigned role oscillates between acting as the urban protagonist and as a dramaturgical element.

10. Centraal Station / Benthem Crouwel Architects

Stationsplein

This highly debated project (22 years of politics back and forth), was finally completed in 2018. Amsterdam's new metro link connects the north to the south with a system of seven metro stations: two stations above ground and five stations underground, along a route that is almost 10 Km long. The task of engineering an underground metro 25 meters deep in the soggy soil of historic Amsterdam , built on long wooden stilts around 1300, was not an easy one.

11. Amsterdam University College / Mecanoo

Science Park 113

Science Park Amsterdam is the new home for the Liberal Arts and Sciences program at the Amsterdam University College, a joint institute of the University of Amsterdam and VU University Amsterdam. Mecanoo designed Amsterdam University College as an inspiring home for a community of international students and their professors. It is an inviting building with a spacious loft on top. A staircase winds through the voids, symbolizing a sense of community for its users.

12. PVH Campus Houthavens Amsterdam / MVSA Architects

Danzigerkade 125

PVH Campus was built in 2018 as the European Headquarters for Calvin Klein & Tommy Hilfiger’s parent company, PVH. The complex is composed of three very different buildings. Given their different focuses and functions, the architects’ approach stresses unity in diversity, with three overlapping water-related concepts. The European HQ Calvin Klein & Tommy Hilfiger building, the first to be completed, has the sleek lines and shiny finishes of a sailing ship. The middle, low-rise building, the social hub of the campus, has a stratified yet flowing form inspired by a waterfall. The third, a high-rise office complex, has a graphic façade that reflects the movement of waves.

13. Conservatorium Hotel / MVSA Architects

Paulus Potterstraat 50

The Conservatorium is set within a former music conservatory, a century-old building, designed by Dutch architect Daniel Knuttel. Lissoni embraced the hotel’s limitations, creatively crafting 129 guest rooms within the original footprint and giving each a unique layout. Much of the furniture is by Lissoni himself, mixed with masters of design pieces and objects trouvés. A sculptural steel staircase links the lobby with the rest of the hotel, creating a catwalk-like transition.

14. The Whale / de Architekten Cie.

Baron G. A. Tindalplein 1

The Whale is one of three big ‘meteorites’ which have landed in-between the low-rise row houses on the Islands of Borneo and Sporenburg. The traditional closed block has been transformed by lifting the two, so the public space flows through underneath. Thanks to its sculptural shape, this building by Frits van Dongen is a real landmark. The program includes 194 flats, offices, and retail space and inside the block, there is a private garden designed by West 8.

15. Tennisclub IJburg / MVRDV

Zandzeggestraat 1

This exciting public structure by MVRDV was built in 2015 as an extension to the tennis club, which currently has 10 clay courts and a tennis school. The aim of the club is to be as accessible as possible, meaning that it is accessible to the general public, free of charge, and open 365 days a year. It's not a private club, but more of a meeting place for young and old, where you can grab a coffee and a healthy snack, meet with friends, or even just check your emails.

16. The Manor Hotel / A.L. van Gendt

Linnaeusstraat 89

The Manor Hotel, originally built in 1891 as the most modern hospital in the country, is known for its red and white brise-soleils and bold interiors. The former hospital was an innovative initiative by Doctor Anton Berns and his wife Woltera van Rees who did the impossible to build a safe space full of light and comfortable spaces for their patients. Football legend Johan Cruyff was born there and prince Bernard had an entire wing reserved for him after a car accident in 1937. In 2011, the premises were transformed into a hip hotel with luxury rooms a trendy lounge, and an authentic Italian restaurant. 

17. Borneo + Sporenburg Bridges / West 8

Panamakade 144

The three bridges of Borneo and Sporenburg by West 8 play an essential role in creating a unique atmosphere in the harbor-residential area. Two of the bridges – one on the Westside and the other on the East side – span the 93-meter wide water of the Railroad basin and connect the islands of Borneo and Sporenburg. Don't miss the beautiful houses around the area such as Six Dwellings in Borneo by Enric Miralles.

18. Lex van Delden Bridge / Dok Architecten

De Boelgracht

Lex van Delden Bridge, built in 2013, not only connects the Boelelaan with the Gershwinplein but more over the city center to the suburbs. The bridge allows traffic to cross and at the same time, it offers a stopping place, where one can comfortably sit down and have a good look around. Tables, chairs, and residents can enjoy a glass of wine in the evening sun. 

19. Summertime Housing / SeARCH

Gustav Mahlerlaan 635

‘Summertime’, built in 2016, consists of two pixelated residential towers. By stacking and shifting apartments as three-dimensional ‘Pixels’ SeARCH was able to maximize views, sunlight, and privacy within a high-density urban environment. This clever offsetting of spaces stretches the relative distance between apartments, offers a large variety of outdoor space, and increases the individual readability of the apartments. All while staying within the constraints of the urban plan.

20. Cuyperspassage / Benthem Crouwel Architects

Cuyperspassage

Cuyperspassage is the name of the new tunnel at Amsterdam Central Station that connects the city and the waters of the IJ river. Since the end of 2015 it has been used by large numbers of cyclists, some 15,000 daily, and pedestrians 24 hours a day. This ‘slow traffic corridor’ was exactly what many users of the city felt was lacking. What once was by necessity a left or right turn is now, at long last, straight ahead. The tunnel is clad on one side by nearly 80,000 Delft Blue tiles: a true Dutch spectacle at a central spot in Amsterdam .

21. iPabo University of Applied Sciences / Mecanoo

Jan Tooropstraat 136

iPabo University of Applied Sciences in Amsterdam trains students to become teachers in primary education. Mecanoo designed the comprehensive building overhaul and extension needed for the substantial increase of students expected in the coming years. The existing iPabo building’s core dates from the 1960s. Mecanoo worked to realize inspirational, transparent environments where there is space to meet in a building that is part renovation and part new build.

22. Sarphatistraat Offices / Steven Holl Architects

410 Sarphatistraat (Singel Canal)

This renovated building is the former federal warehouse of medical supplies. In 1997 it was turned into a new office space. The main structure is a four-story brick “U” merging internally with a new ‘sponge’ pavilion on the canal. While the exterior expression is one of the complementary contrasts (existing brick adjacent to new perforated copper), the interior strategy is one fusion. 

23. BankGiro Loterij / Benthem Crouwel Architects

Beethovenstraat 200

Benthem Crouwel Architects transformed an empty, neglected office building into a high-quality, inspiring, and sustainable office where all employees of the Goede Doelen Loterijen (Dutch Charity Lotteries) can work together. The building received a BREEAM rating ‘Outstanding’- making it the most sustainable renovated property in the Netherlands. Besides offices, the building houses a public restaurant, an auditorium, and a TV studio.

24. Hotel nhow Amsterdam RAI / OMA

Europaboulevard 2b

The main hotel for the RAI Amsterdam convention and exhibition center, the scheme offers 650 hotel rooms across 25 floors. Formed of three shifting triangular volumes, the scheme draws from a triangular advertising column on the Europaplein that once stood prominently on the site. The project has been 15-years in the making, as a larger 800-room proposal was once rejected by the city a few years back.

25. RAI Car Park / Benthem Crouwel Architects

Europaplein 24

Amsterdam's Exhibition and Convention Centre has a new, multifunctional car park. The building is 30 meters high and its eight floors offer parking space for about 1.000 cars. What makes the building remarkable is the fact that the first floor is not just for parking cars, but can also be used as a flexible space for conventions and exhibitions. When the RAI does not need a car park, the building can function as a public parking space.

You can check these and other amazing buildings of Amsterdam on this Google map or download the Free Architecture Guide of Amsterdam (PDF) .

Editor's Note : This article was originally published on February 11, 2020.

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• tours in amsterdam
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• …in Amsterdam
• Guiding Architects

IJburg — Living on Reclaimed Islands

• Ams­ter­dam
• Dura­tion: 3–4 hours
• Date and time to be defined
• max. 25 par­tic­i­pants per guide
• on foot, by bike, pub­lic trans­port, bus
• Con­tact us for a quote

IJburg is Ams­ter­dam’s largest hous­ing exten­sion and will even­tu­al­ly count 18.000 homes. It con­sists of 7 arti­fi­cial islands in lake IJmeer, which are being devel­oped in phas­es. The cre­ation and real­iza­tion of the first 4 islands start­ed in 1999 and was fin­ished in 2011; the sec­ond phase start­ed in 2013. A large vari­ety of hous­ing typolo­gies, includ­ing urban hous­ing blocks, row hous­es, indi­vid­ual fam­i­ly homes and even float­ing homes, char­ac­ter­izes the islands. In some areas IJburg is exempt from the super­vi­sion of the munic­i­pal beau­ty com­mis­sion, grant­i­ng home­own­ers total free­dom in design­ing their dwelling.

On this tour we’ll explain why and how the islands were cre­at­ed, how their shape was deter­mined and what the spe­cif­ic chal­lenges were. We’ll also let you know about the urban con­cept, hous­ing typolo­gies and social background.

Tour Programme: IJburg

• Expla­na­tions about the cre­ation of the islands : ground own­er­ship, tech­nique, urban plan­ning, etc
• Steigerei­land : pri­vate hous­es by a.o. VMX Archi­tects, Claus en Kaan, Rocha Tombal, Faro (2008–2011)
• Sluishuis: ter­raced hous­ing com­plex in the water (BIG and Bar­code, 2022)
• Float­ing hous­es (Mar­lies Rohmer et al, 2010)
• IJburg har­bour with mixed-use block Jonas (Orange Archi­tects, 2023)
• Grote Rietei­land : detached pri­vate hous­es by a.o. Stu­dion­ine­dots, Hans van Heeswi­jck (2014); Ten­nis Club (MVRDV, 2015)
• Cen­trumei­land : self-build homes under construction

More Tours in Amsterdam

Around the Central Station 

Living Lab Buiksloterham 

Bike Mobility 

Affordable Housing in Noord 

Water Management in North Holland 

Climate Resilient Amsterdam 

100 Years of Housing: from Het Schip to Houthaven 

Knowledge Mile 

Structuralism in Amsterdam 

Zuidas Business District 

Amsterdam’s new tourism campaign is ready to ruffle some feathers

Mar 30, 2023 • 7 min read

When visiting Amsterdam, consider greener, more socially responsible activities than wild nights in the Red Light District © Lana Iva / Shutterstock

If you’re a young British male planning a trip to Amsterdam  to “go wild,” consider yourself on notice.

As “overtourism” threatens to overwhelm the city, the Dutch capital is actively telling certain travelers not to visit via what city officials are dubbing a (rather blunt) “discouragement campaign.”

The campaign specifically targets British men aged between 18 and 35 who plan to travel to the city to drink and take drugs.

When British tourists search online for terms including "stag party Amsterdam" "pub crawl Amsterdam" or something as innocuous as "cheap hotel Amsterdam" they'll soon be greeted with a video advertisement warning them of the consequences of consuming too much alcohol or drugs or causing trouble in the city through antisocial behavior.

“Nuisance tourists” no longer welcome

"The aim of the discouragement campaign is to keep out visitors that we do not want. If we love the city, we must take action now," says deputy mayor Sofyan Mbarki in a statement. "In recent months, I have talked to many different groups: residents, businesses, experts and interest groups. From these discussions, it has become clear that… intervention is needed."

Amsterdam is one of the most popular destinations for British stag (bachelor) parties thanks to its proximity to the UK and, of course, the legalization of cannabis and brothels. These trips generally include all-night drink and drug benders and sometimes antisocial behavior, which causes a strain on daily life for residents.

While the "Stay Away" campaign is targeted at just British male tourists for now, authorities say it may be expanded later in the year to include visitors behaving badly from elsewhere in the Netherlands and other EU countries. 

From tolerate to regulate

Amsterdam hailed as a highly tolerant, liberal city, has become increasingly regulated over recent years, especially in De Wallen, better known as the Red Light District. In 2008, the number of prostitution windows was cut from 482 to 243; 100 more will soon be moved to a multi-story "erotic center" on Amsterdam's outskirts.

Critics, such as sex-worker advocate Justine le Clercq, accuse the city council of becoming increasingly conservative. "If you really want more safety for the [sex work] industry, you provide several small locations and more opportunities to work from home, just like other freelancers are allowed to do," she says.

Yet authorities say no moral judgment is involved in curbing disproportionate numbers of “men aged 18 to 35 that only come to party and use our city as a backdrop,” says city spokeswoman Carina Noordervliet.

“The streets in [Amsterdam's city center] are very small and therefore much [more] crowded than, for example, the wide public spaces in Paris, London or Berlin," she continues. "The discouragement campaign [is] targeted at a group of people who in general don't contribute to the city in a positive way.”

New measures on “feestbeest” and cannabis 

More comprehensive measures on feestbeest ("party animals" in Dutch) – pub crawls, stag parties, stagettes and so on – will prevent raucous conduct in busy inner areas like Rembrandtplein , Leidseplein and particularly the Red Light District. Further measures – such as reducing the number of Airbnb rentals, hotels and river cruises – aim to dial down tourism overall, bringing annual overnight stays from 18 million to below 10 million.

Amsterdam is also increasing measures to discourage the sale of alcohol. Already, you can't buy alcohol after 4pm between Thursday and Sunday – and the city now requires that alcohol be hidden from view or removed from stores during these hours.

In February, the city council announced it would ban people from smoking marijuana on the streets in the Red Light District  from mid-May. This is in response to complaints from residents about disruptive tourists who flood the district in the late hours and engage in antisocial behavior.

"Residents of the old town suffer a lot from mass tourism and alcohol and drug abuse in the streets," the council said in a statement. "Tourists can also attract street dealers who in turn cause crime and insecurity."

There's still plenty of fun to be had in Amsterdam. If you're going to experience the city for its dynamic culture (in both daytime and nighttime), historic architecture, forward-thinking gastronomy and pristine natural spaces, here are some tips for having a fantastic time in the Dutch capital – while being respectful of local life.

Venture outside the city center 

Amsterdam's canals offer just one perspective on a fabulously diverse urban landscape that Noordervliet, the city spokeswoman, says many visitors don't fully explore. It's true that just a short tram ride or cycling adventure away from downtown , sprawling greenery abounds in the city's wonderful parks . Explore divine lakes and meadows around the Bos forest. At Sloterpark and Westerpark , you'll find plenty of space to picnic and even go swimming.

You can also take the five-minute ferry from Centraal Station to Noord , Amsterdam's ultra-cool, up-and-coming warehouse district. Enjoy the seaside breeze while discovering street art and popping into industrial haunts like NDSM-Werf , an 84,000 sq m former shipyard hosting art galleries and restaurants.

Stay and travel green

Amsterdam is one of the world's leading cities for smart mobility. Traverse the canals aboard a kayak, pedal boat or electric craft. Many tour operators, including Those Dam Boat Guys , offer zero-emission canal tours.

Afterward, retire to a hotel with a clear green focus. The brothel-turned-boutique hostel Cocomama and local hotel chain Conscious offer organic meals, eco-friendly design and upkeep using sustainable methods and supplies. 

Support Amsterdam's "circular city" goals

A few years ago, Amsterdam announced it wanted to become the world's first " circular city ," aiming for a waste-free (or "circular") economy by 2050 using sustainable and renewable raw materials. As a visitor, you can support this by shopping locally and sustainably at vintage boutiques along the  Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets), patronizing ecologically focused designers like Mercer and Property Of , and (especially) dining at eco-conscious restaurants like  De Ceuvel , Foccaceria and Gartine . 

Seek out socially responsible initiatives

Set out for a tour or activity that enriches local life. The world's first sustainable-fashion museum, Fashion for Good , explores fast fashion's alarming impact. A percentage of ticket sales goes toward a same-named nonprofit that helps local designers become more sustainable.

With  Plastic Whale , you can directly help clean up polluted waterways by "plastic fishing" from boats made of retrieved and recycled plastic waste. Or learn about the city's lesser-known stories and social issues via Tours That Matter , which offers guided walks along such themes as colonialism and gentrification. 

Meet the locals 

You can really get to know the city on a walking tour that brings diverse Amsterdam voices to the fore. Mee in Mokum tours are led by volunteers of all ages (often, feisty grannies). Meanwhile, Rederij Lampedusa offers canal-boat tours in former refugee boats led by those who arrived during the refugee crisis.

See the Red Light District in a new light…

Scout out socially responsible initiatives in the Red Light District, such as the Condomerie , a boutique condom shop run by a safe-sex and HIV/AIDS-prevention foundation, or visit the sex-worker collective My Red Light's mini-museum about De Wallen history. Grab a pint at the De Prael craft brewery , which employs ex-prisoners and those with a history of mental illness. Or time your visit with events such as the Red Light Jazz Festival , which highlights a different side of De Wallen's culture.

…or go for a pub crawl in a different neighborhood

Amsterdam was the first city to appoint a nachtburgemeester (night mayor) to ensure that nightlife thrives even despite overcrowding. Several eclectic and lively after-dark establishments have popped up in recent years showcasing the vibrance and diversity that Amsterdam has to offer. In a revamped Noord warehouse,  Sexyland World  is an artists' hub bringing together 365 businesses and organizations that hosts everything from roller-disco nights to poetry slams. At Amsterdam Roest , you can relax at an industrial shipyard–turned–beach bar, or join thousands of other ravers enjoying the beats at Warehouse Elementenstraat .

"There's a much bigger picture of nightlife in Amsterdam than the Red Light District and other places to feel the pulse of the city," says current nightlife mayor Ramon de Lima. "Instead of closing down clubs, the creative community and municipality are finding solutions…[showing] our culture of not ignoring problems but trying to solve them together."

Respect the rules

Don't forget that illegal acts are punishable by fine and enforced by patrolling officers. Smoking cannabis is not allowed on city-center streets, nor is lighting up tobacco indoors. Photographing sex workers is highly disrespectful, not to mention illegal. If you use common sense, your visit to Amsterdam is sure to be, as the Dutch say, lekker gezellig .

Which loosely translates to "absolutely freaking awesome."

This article was first published Mar 6, 2023 and updated Mar 30, 2023.

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