The Haarlemmerdijk was the main western access road to Amsterdam. Inns and other dike constructions appeared outside the city wall at an early stage. From 1613 the area became part of the geometric 17th century canal plan of Amsterdam. Between the luxurious residential area along the canals and the new working islands in the IJ formed a mixed, lively neighborhood. What different types of buildings did the neighbourhood produce? In the 19th century, the neighbourhood lost its waterfront due to the construction of the railway track. The Catholic complex around the Posthoornkerk appeared. After WWII, the revolutionary building on the old wood gardens had to disappear for the construction of a motorway that eventually became a two-lane road. With what idea did architect Herzberger fill the remaining empty space in the seventies? What do the future plans for this road look like? All these questions will be answered during a unique walk. The walk will be followed by the climbing of the tower of the Posthoorn church  and a coffee in the church.

Port extension, Jewish corner, postwar city renewal: former immigrant quarter next to the red light district, saved as a picturesque residential area

The Marine terrain is under renovation. Buildings stay, functions change. That was different for the rest of the island Kattenburg where slopes and ship builders houses disappeared in het 1960’s for postwar housing. Oostenburg, the latest industrial terrain in the inner city, is under construction right now: the monumental industrial halls will form a unity with new residential blocks. Meeting point before the pedestrian entrance of the Marine terrain. The tour will be finished with a cup of coffee in museum Kromhoutwerf.