Today, let’s explore a place where time seems to stand still the Postzegelmarkt. This market may be small but it is rich with history. The Postzegelmarkt is located on the southern part of Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal. It is just behind the Palace on Dam Square.
Once upon a time, this area was known as Deventer Houtmarkt. Back in the 16th century, wood was delivered and traded here. Later, in the 17th and 18th centuries, it transformed into a flower market. Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal was still water then. It wasn’t filled in until around 1884.
Though everyone calls it Postzegelmarkt, that is not its official name. The stamp traders here have a unique position. Their trading spot is tolerated but not regulated. Tradition decides their places, much like the book vendors on Oude Mannenhuispoort.
You know, collecting stamps and coins used to be a very common hobby in Europe. But since the mid-1980s, the stamp market has declined. Despite this, the Postzegelmarkt persists.
Let’s talk about the feel of the Postzegelmarkt. It is one of the few places in Amsterdam where time stands still. Traders are friendly. Prices are low. It is a must for collectors. Merchants travel here from small Dutch cities. That is why the choice is unique.
Behind the Postzegelmarkt and in Rosmarijnsteeg, you will find specialized shops. These dark and dusty shops sell stamps, coins, telephone cards, and postcards. If you are a collector, this is your haven.
After renovations in June 2022, the area has become a small green stretch. It now features a children’s playground and underground storage for rainwater. The stamp collectors and merchants have returned to their favorite spot. They have been here for more than 75 years.
By the way, Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal used to be a busy road with many printers. In the 19th century, major newspapers and magazines had offices here. Journalists gathered in nearby bars like Hotel Royal and Café Scheltema. Between 1967 and 1976, the newspapers moved away. To commemorate this history, a bronze statue of Argus was placed here in June 2022. Argus is a comic strip journalist in the form of a rat. Marten Toonder created Argus as the proverbial news reporter. He is curious, energetic, tenacious, opportunistic, and slightly invasive.
Take a look at the buildings around the Postzegelmarkt. At Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 282, there is a house with a six-window facade. It dates back to around 1725. City mayor Hendrik Bicker once lived here. From 1910 to 1957, it was the Prinsenschool. Later, it became a small theater called Tingel Tangel.
At the corner of Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal and Wijdesteeg, you will see a house from 1688. It has sculpted decorations in Dutch Classicist style. It once housed a knife factory and a stamp shop. Now, it is an antique dealer.
Just north of St. Luciënsteeg, there is a small wooden construction. It is now a coffee spot called Stadspaleis. It was constructed in 1896 as a police station.
If you want to visit the Postzegelmarkt, remember it is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10 AM to 4 PM. You can reach it by tram or by foot from Dam Square. The Postzegelmarkt is a testament to the enduring appeal of collecting and the rich history of Amsterdam. A unique place that has something to offer for everyone.