Herengracht and The Golden Bend: Mansions of the Merchant Kings

Why is it significant?

Stand along the Herengracht between Leidsestraat and Vijzelstraat and look across the broad canal at the magnificent double-fronted limestone palaces of the Gouden Bocht—the Golden Bend.

Key Facts

Open the walk

Stand along the Herengracht between Leidsestraat and Vijzelstraat and look across the broad canal at the magnificent double-fronted limestone palaces of the Gouden Bocht—the Golden Bend. Unlike the narrow brick houses elsewhere in the city, these aristocratic residences boast majestic classical sandstone facades, sculpted pediments, and sweeping double-flight entrance staircases.

Laid out in sixteen sixty-four during the fourth expansion of Amsterdam, this curve attracted the wealthiest merchant princes, directors of the Dutch East India Company, and burgomasters. To display their staggering fortunes, they bought double plots of land, paying exorbitant taxes to build palaces wide enough to rival European royalty.

Behind these austere classical facades lie secret gardens that rival small city parks, complete with sculpted fountains, classical pavilions, and private carriage houses facing the Keizersgracht behind.

Walk two blocks west to Keizersgracht to discover the House with the Heads.