Traditional Dutch buildings on an Amsterdam canal 27 Jul 2017
About this photo
Cruising the canals is an excellent way to view Amsterdam. The historic buildings are lit at night, their lights reflecting on the water. During the day, you can admire their colourful facades.
These tall townhouses, which seem to rise from the waterway, were built mainly in the 17th century. This period was known the Dutch Golden Age. A fire roared through the city, burning the previous wooden medieval structures. Wooden structures were banned, paving the way for the brick build terraces we see today.
The gables and dual entrances give the houses an air of grandeur. Many have been converted to museums, hotels and offices. They make the perfect place to sit and watch as the day unfold from.
This article was originally published on 24 November, 2015
