Torensluis
The Torensluis (Tower Sluice) is an arch bridge from 1649, crossing the Singel at the corner of the Torensteeg. At 42 meter (138 ft)…
Begijnhof
The Begijnhof (Beguine Courtyard) from the 14th century has two entrances: one on the Spui, the other on the Gedempte Begijnensloot (Filled-In…
American Hotel
In the 19th century the Netherlands was one of the largest investors in the United States, second only to England. The first American Hotel (1882-1900)…
Helios Building
The Helios building at Spui 15-19, designed by architect Gerrit van Arkel in Art Nouveau style, was built for portrait photographer Max Büttinghausen…
Leidseplein
Most people know the Leidseplein and the adjacent area only as a spot for pubs, restaurants, theaters and nightlife, but it has an interesting…
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal
The Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal is a former canal (filled in in 1884) which runs from Spui to Martelaarsgracht, more or less in a north-south…
Spui
The current Spui square was originally a body of water until it was filled in around 1882. Many interesting buildings can be seen there and it also has…
Koggeschip
The early versions of the Amsterdam seal show a cog, on board a merchant with banner, a military man and a dog — representing trade, defense and…
Raadhuisstraat
The Raadhuisstraat, situated between the Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal (filled in 1884) and the Keizersgracht, was constructed from 1895…
Willet-Holthuysen
The Willet-Holthuysen Museum, located at Herengracht 605, is a beautiful canal house and museum with period rooms and an impressive formal garden.…
Schapenburgerpad
The Schapenburgerpad, at Hobbemastraat 8A, is an old polder path dating from well before 1734, when it was first mentioned in a document. Enclosed between…
The Quaker and the Nursery School
The Berenstraat (Bear's Street) is probably named after the bear skin trade in this area, related to the tanneries which could be found in the adjacent…