Here stands the Singelgracht, a waterway defining Amsterdam’s very core. The Singelgracht is often mistaken for the Singel. But the Singelgracht encircles the entire city center.
Let’s dive into the Singelgracht’s story. Picture Amsterdam around 1660. The city expanded, and so did its defenses. After the fourth expansion of the canal belt the outer canal, became the Singelgracht. It formed the city’s boundary with defensive city walls. These walls held strong bolwarks, and windmills stood upon them. This explains the Singelgracht’s winding path. The Lijnbaansgracht ran parallel. It was named for the rope-making sites once there. Some bolwarks were removed. The canal got straightened in places. Yet, some curves still show the old shape.
For two centuries, Amsterdam had a crescent shape. But the late 19th century saw growth beyond the Singelgracht. The walls came down, giving way to streets like Marnixstraat.
The Singelgracht isn’t just for show. Part of it connects the IJ to the Kattensloot. This stretch, between Westerkanaal and Rotterdammerbrug, is part of a ship route. It features bridges that open for tall ships. Other bridges over the Singelgracht remain fixed in place.
There are buildings you should watch out for. The Rijksmuseum sits near the Singelgracht. It displays works by Dutch masters. Vondelpark is also nearby. It offers a green escape with ponds and flowers.
The Singelgracht came to be in 1663. It acted as a bastille around the municipality. It was a defense against harm. The waterway was 60 meters wide. It featured eight gates and 26 defense towers. Plaques in the streets mark the old tower locations.
Amsterdam grew further in 1877. The Singelgracht lost its role as the city’s edge. The canal narrowed. Citadel towers vanished to create room for homes.
Many boat tours miss the Singelgracht. The best way to see it is by walking or biking. Pedal boats are another option. Look for streets like Nassaukade to find the Singelgracht. The Singelgracht is not to be confused with the Singel. The Singel is near Amsterdam Central Station.
The Singelgracht stands as a testament to Amsterdam’s growth. It showcases its defenses and later, its embrace of expansion. Remember its story as you explore its banks.