Red Light District

De Wallen is Amsterdam's notorious red-light district, set in the oldest part of the city between Warmoesstraat, Zeedijk and Nieuwmarkt. The name derives from the wallen, the medieval city walls that once ran here. The quarter has been associated with sailors and entertainment since the 14th century, and in 2000 the Netherlands formally legalised prostitution here. Narrow alleys, coffeeshops, bars and the red-lit window cabins along the canals define its character. Walking through, you encounter Gothic fabric, the 13th-century Oude Kerk and a slice of Amsterdam social history currently being renegotiated between tolerance policy and tourism pressure.