Do you love the charm of old cities with their hidden stories and unique details? Amsterdam is a city full of rich history, and one of its more charming features is the house stones. As you wander through the city, you might stumble across these lovely house name plaques. They’re not just there for decoration – they tell stories, too. A long time ago, there were no house numbers or postal codes in Amsterdam, and yet people rarely got lost. That’s because every house in the city had a name etched into a decorative stone on its facade. These names, often accompanied by beautiful fairy tale images, religious symbols, or inspiring sayings, were more than just identifiers – they were part of the city’s character. You can still see remnants of this tradition today, especially on the corner of Nieuweburgsteeg and Oudezijds Voorburgwal, where many old buildings, now demolished, have been set into the outer wall of the bar Haven van Texel (‘Harbour of Texel’). Take the time to look for more of these charming stones scattered across the city center, particularly on Begijnensloot near Kalverstraat.
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Why should you visit this attraction? While it may not be a conventional museum or bustling tourist spot, these house stones are a wonderful way to explore Amsterdam’s rich history. They provide a glimpse into the past, allowing you to imagine the stories behind each house and its residents. A walk through the city becomes an adventure when you start looking for these hidden treasures. The nicest part about this attraction is that it’s completely free and accessible to everyone. You can take your time walking around the city, exploring the old streets, and searching for these historical gems. If you’re keen on avoiding the crowds, try visiting during weekdays, when the city is quieter.
Walk towards the Name Stones from Central Station. Before Damrak go to the left into the small side street. The stones are located on a wall of a restaurant called Haven van Texel at the start of the Oudezijds Voorburgwal.
Plan Your Visit
NAME STONES
Sint Olofssteeg 11
1012 NL Amsterdam, Netherlands
Daily 10:00-17:00
About This Area
THE OLD CHURCH & NEW MARKET
This area, called de Oudezijds or Old Side, is indeed the oldest part of town. It was built before the Golden Age (17th century) and the famous Canal Belt. The church standing in the middle has something peculiar about it. It is the oldest building in the city, so it seems quite understandable that it is now called Oude Kerk (Old Church). Not all streets and canals in this area are suitable for children, avoid the so-called Red Light District.
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