Nieuwmarkt

The Nieuwmarkt is one of the most vibrant and historically rich places in Amsterdam. Located in the heart of the city center, this square and neighborhood have witnessed centuries of history, architectural evolutions, and social changes that have made it a symbol of the Dutch capital. The history of the Nieuwmarkt begins in the Middle Ages, precisely in 1488, when the area was officially recognized as a market. Originally, the square served as a place for various markets, including livestock and vegetable markets. Its strategic location, just inside the walls of the old city, made it a reference point for traders and buyers. In 1614, the canal surrounding the Sint Anthoniespoort, now known as De Waag, was covered, transforming the place into a market square. This transformation marked the beginning of an era of prosperity and commercial growth for the Nieuwmarkt. De Waag, the focal point of the square, is one of the most iconic buildings in Amsterdam. Originally one of the city gates, the Sint Anthoniespoort lost its defensive function with urban expansion and was converted into a public weigh house. This Dutch Renaissance building has served various purposes over the centuries: from a public weigh house to the headquarters of guilds, and even a place for public executions. Today, it houses a restaurant and a cultural center, keeping its historical legacy alive. In the 17th century, the Nieuwmarkt became a commercial hub due to its proximity to the port and the main canals of Amsterdam. Merchants came from everywhere to sell their products, transforming the square into a crossroads of cultures and goods. This period of commercial flourishing left an indelible mark on the neighborhood’s architecture, with buildings that still testify to the wealth of that era. During World War II, the Nieuwmarkt and the surrounding areas were deeply affected by the Nazi occupation. Many Jewish residents of the neighborhood were deported, and the square itself was used by the Germans as a gathering point for deportations. This tragic history is still visible in the memorials and testimonies preserved in the area. In the 1970s, the Nieuwmarkt was at the center of protests and clashes known as the “Nieuwmarkt Riots.” These riots arose from the resistance of local residents against government plans to demolish part of the neighborhood to make way for a new metro line and a highway. The protests were so intense that the highway plans were abandoned, although the metro was built, and today the Nieuwmarkt station is one of the most used in the city. The nightlife of the Nieuwmarkt is lively, with numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants that enliven the square. Among the most famous venues are Café Cuba, known for its cocktails, and the Temple Bar, an Irish pub with a wide selection of beers and a cozy atmosphere. For those seeking a more traditional experience, Café in de Waag offers Dutch cuisine in a historic setting. The surrounding neighborhood, known as Nieuwmarktbuurt, is famous for its multiculturalism, particularly for the presence of Chinatown, located on the eastern edge of the square. Here, visitors can explore Asian markets, restaurants, and shops that offer a taste of Chinese, Malaysian, and Thai cultures. During the Chinese New Year, the area comes alive with lion and dragon dances, fireworks, and traditional celebrations that attract large crowds.