Have you ever heard of Amsterdam's narrowest house? It's one of the city's most curious and photographed attractions. In this article, we will explore all the details of this architectural gem, revealing its history, characteristics and the best ways to visit it. So, come with us on this journey through the narrow corners of Amsterdam!

What is the Narrowest House in Amsterdam?

The narrowest house in Amsterdam, also known as “Het smalste huis van Amsterdam”, is an incredibly slender building located at Oude Hoogstraat 22. What makes this house so special is its facade, which measures just over two meters wide. This unique characteristic attracts tourists and architecture enthusiasts from all over the world, all curious to see this architectural curiosity up close.

History and curiosities

The history of the narrowest house in Amsterdam is full of curiosities. Built around 1650, it is believed that the house was designed this way to evade taxes, which at that time were charged according to the width of the facade. Another interesting theory is that the house was built between two existing buildings, taking advantage of a small available space. Whatever the real reason, the narrow house is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the time.

Architectural Features

Despite its narrow facade, the house has several floors that extend backwards, making it deeper than it is wide. The architecture is typical of Amsterdam, with gabled facade and brick details. Inside, the spaces are intelligently distributed to make the most of every centimeter. The windows, although small, allow natural light to illuminate the interior, creating a cozy and welcoming environment.

Where is the Narrowest House Located?

The narrowest house is located at Oude Hoogstraat 22, in the heart of Amsterdam. Oude Hoogstraat is a charming street full of shops, cafes and other historic buildings. Its central location makes the narrowest house easily accessible by public transport, bicycle or even on foot, if you are exploring the city center.

How to Get There

To get to the narrowest house, you have several options:

• Public transport: The nearest stop is Nieuwmarkt, served by several tram and bus lines. From there, it is a short walk to Oude Hoogstraat.
• Bicycle: Amsterdam is a city very friendly to cyclists. You can easily rent a bike and cycle to the narrowest house, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way.
• On foot: If you are already in the city center, walking is a great option. Amsterdam is a city to be explored on foot, and you will surely come across other interesting attractions along the way.

Nearby attractions

Visiting the narrowest house is a great opportunity to explore other attractions in the region. Nearby, you will find:

• Nieuwmarkt: A historic square with a daily market and several restaurants and cafes.
• The Red Light District: One of Amsterdam's most famous and controversial neighborhoods, known for its nightlife and liberal atmosphere.
• Dam Square: The heart of Amsterdam, where you will find the Royal Palace and the Nieuwe Kerk.

Why is the Narrowest House Famous?

The fame of the narrowest house is due to a combination of factors. Its unique architecture, intriguing history and privileged location make it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Amsterdam. In addition, the narrow house is a symbol of the creativity and ingenuity of the Dutch people, who have always known how to make the most of the available space.

Curiosity and photographic appeal

Who can resist photographing a house that is just over two meters wide? The narrowest house is a favorite subject for photographers, both amateurs and professionals. Its unique facade and charming atmosphere make it an irresistible attraction for those who want to capture a unique memory of Amsterdam.

Symbol of Amsterdam architecture

The narrowest house is also a symbol of Amsterdam architecture, which is characterized by narrow, tall buildings, often with gabled facades. This architectural style is a reflection of the history and culture of the city, which has always had to deal with limited space and high population density.

How to Visit the Narrowest House

Visiting the narrowest house is quite simple, as it is located on a public street and can be seen from the outside at any time. However, if you want to know the interior of the house, you will need to check if it is open to the public, as it currently houses a shop. Here are some tips for planning your visit:

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the narrowest house is during the week, when the flow of tourists is usually smaller. If you prefer to visit on the weekend, arrive early to avoid crowds. In addition, the narrowest house is especially charming during the winter months, when the Christmas lights add an extra touch of magic to the city.

Respect the space

As the narrowest house is located on a public street, it is important to respect the space and avoid obstructing the passage of pedestrians. If you want to take pictures, do so quickly and without disturbing others. Remember that you are in a residential area, so be mindful of the residents.

What to do nearby

Taking advantage of your visit to the narrowest house, explore the surroundings. Oude Hoogstraat is full of interesting shops, cafes and restaurants. Take a stroll through the streets, discover hidden corners and enjoy the atmosphere of Amsterdam.

Other Narrow Houses in Amsterdam

Although the house at Oude Hoogstraat 22 is the most famous, Amsterdam has other narrow buildings that are worth a visit. These houses are a testament to the city's unique architecture and the creativity of its inhabitants. Here are some other narrow houses in Amsterdam:

Singel 7

Located at Singel 7, this house is another example of narrow architecture in Amsterdam. Although it is not as narrow as the house at Oude Hoogstraat 22, it is still an impressive building that attracts the attention of passers-by.

Kloveniersburgwal 26

This house, located at Kloveniersburgwal 26, is another curiosity of Amsterdam architecture. With a narrow facade and a charming appearance, it is a must-see for architecture lovers.

Oudezijds Voorburgwal 10

Located at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 10, this house is another example of how the Dutch have always known how to make the most of the available space. With a narrow facade and a unique design, it is a true architectural gem.

Conclusion

The narrowest house in Amsterdam is more than just a building; it is a symbol of the city's history, culture and architecture. Visiting this architectural gem is a unique experience that will allow you to better understand the spirit of Amsterdam and the creativity of its inhabitants. So, don't miss the opportunity to explore this curious corner of the city and discover all the secrets it holds!

Guys, I hope you enjoyed this virtual tour of Amsterdam's narrowest house! If you are planning a trip to the city, be sure to include this attraction in your itinerary. And if you have already visited the narrowest house, share your experience with us in the comments below. Until next time!