Anna Folkema: Four buildings and a bridge in Amsterdam (1723)

 
(Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, The Netherlands)

An engraving made by the Dutch female artist Anna Folkema (1695-1768). This print shows 5 buildings in early 18th century Amsterdam. From top to bottom:

1. The old City Inn: a "city inn" (in Dutch 'Stadsherberg') was an inn for travellers who arrived after sunset when the city gates were usually closed (in the case of Amsterdam after half-past nine). These inns were located in the harbour and outside the city walls. This inn was build in 1614 and stood on wooden poles in the river IJ, a small bridge connected the inn with the city. The inn was for passengers of the ships, sailors had to stay on their ships. Food and drinks were also served which made it also a popular attraction for citizens of Amsterdam. This Inn was located at the West side of the harbour, what is now the street Droogbak in Amsterdam. The building was demolished in 1755

2. The New City Inn: A second City Inn was built in 1662 at the East side of the harbour, in what is now Amsterdam Central Station. The ferry to the other side of the river IJ also stopped here. The building was demolished in 1872 to make room for the new Central Station.

3. The city Inn at the Plantage Middenlaan: another City Inn which was situated at the street Plantage Middenlaan. It was built in 1688. The building was converted in 1866 into the Old Men's and Women's house of saint Jacob.

4. The Tollhouse: This building was constructed in 1662 for the collection of toll from ships who travelled North on the Buikslotertrekvaart. The gallows field of Amsterdam was also situated here. In the 18th and 19th century this place became a popular attraction for citizens of Amsterdam were they could eat and drink along the riverside. The tollhouse still exists today.

5. The New Bridge: This bridge connected the East and West side of Amsterdam and is situated at the entrance of the Damrak and the river IJ. This bridge still exists today.

Engraving from 1723.