Schreierstoren

The Schreierstoren, one of the oldest structures in Amsterdam, is a fascinating symbol of the city’s medieval history. Built in 1487, this tower was part of the defensive walls that surrounded Amsterdam, protecting the city from external attacks. Located at the corner of Prins Hendrikkade and Geldersekade, the tower overlooks the old port, a strategic point for trade and the city’s defense. The history of the Schreierstoren is rich with myths and legends. Its name is often mistakenly translated as “Tower of Tears,” with the romantic notion that it was the place where women tearfully bid farewell to their husbands departing for sea. However, the original name in old Dutch, “Schreyhoeckstoren,” actually refers to the sharp angle (schrey) that the tower forms with the city walls. Despite the etymological explanation, the legend of the tears remains alive in the collective imagination, adding a touch of charm to the tower’s history.The Schreierstoren also has a significant role in the history of explorations. It was from here that Henry Hudson, the English explorer in the service of the Dutch East India Company (VOC), set sail in 1609 for his voyage that led to the discovery of New York Bay and the Hudson River. This journey marked the beginning of Dutch colonization of the region, an event that would have lasting repercussions on American history.Over the centuries, the function of the Schreierstoren has changed several times. During the VOC period, the tower served as a departure point for sailors heading to the East Indies. Sailors would gather here before setting sail for Texel, where they awaited favorable winds to begin their journey eastward. Today, the tower houses the VOC Café, a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the historical atmosphere while enjoying a glass of jenever, the traditional Dutch gin.Another point of interest of the Schreierstoren is the historical memory linked to its architecture. Despite modifications and restorations, the tower has retained many of its original features, such as the thick brick walls and narrow windows, which offer a glimpse into Amsterdam’s medieval past. Inside, the historic rooms and architectural details tell stories of defense, trade, and daily life in the medieval city.The Schreierstoren is also a landmark for contemporary culture and society in Amsterdam. In addition to the VOC Café, the tower hosts cultural events and exhibitions that celebrate the city’s rich maritime history. Its strategic location near Amsterdam Central Station and the heart of the historic center makes it easily accessible to tourists and residents.A particular element of the Schreierstoren is its ability to evoke the past through legends and stories, such as that of the woman commemorated by a plaque from 1569, who, according to legend, went mad with grief at her husband’s departure. Although these stories are often more myth than reality, they contribute to creating the fascinating aura that surrounds the tower.