As you might know, I was born and raised in the Jordaan area, at the Bloemgracht 102 to be exact. A beautiful canal just off the Prinsengracht, close to the Westerkerk and Anne Frank house. The Jordaan started out as a typical lower class neighborhood. A ‘volksbuurt’ as we Dutchies like to call it. Later it became one of the most romanticized city districts of Amsterdam. In this article I would love to tell you a little bit more about its history. How it became to be this sassy, authentic neighborhood, everyone tends to love with immediately.

Rumor has it the origin of the name Jordaan is a derivation of the French word Jardin, meaning garden. And when you think of it, most streets and canals in this neighborhood are indeed named after trees and flowers. Take the lovely Bloemgracht, Leliegracht and Rozengracht for example.

The Jordaan district was built in 1612, as part of a big expansion of the city. Its main purpose was to house the working class and emigrants, which is exactly what it did until the 19th century, when impoverishment hit the district. After the second World War things had only gotten worse, which eventually resulted in a big renovation during the seventies.

During this period of time the district got discovered by a whole new generation. Mostly artists, students and young entrepreneurs saw its potential and located their businesses here. Meanwhile, most of its former residents moved to other parts of the city. The new residents changed the Jordaan from a low class ‘volksbuurt’ to a sassy, smart village but kept its authentic Amsterdam character.

This only grew over the years, where now it is one on the most popular districts in Amsterdam. More and more explorers, travelers and treasure seekers find their way to this beautiful, historic part of Amsterdam. Hiding out in its hidden courtyards, relaxing next to the many canals or wandering around its small alleyways. Are you next?

Sincerely,

Mr. J