Description
Ah, the Dubbeltjespanden in Amsterdam – a hidden gem that most tourists walk right past without a second glance. But let me tell you, as a local who’s lived in this vibrant city for years, these unassuming buildings have a fascinating story to tell.
Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, the Dubbeltjespanden are two building complexes that might not catch your eye at first. But trust me, they’re worth a closer look. These structures, built in the late 19th century, are a testament to Amsterdam’s innovative spirit and commitment to social housing.
You might be wondering, “What’s with the funny name?” Well, ‘dubbeltje’ means ‘dime’ in Dutch, and there’s a good reason for it. Back in the day, members of the construction company that built these houses would pay a weekly dubbeltje (about 5 cents) towards owning their home. After 20 years of these small payments, they’d become proud homeowners. Pretty clever, right?
As you stroll by, you might not realize you’re looking at a piece of Amsterdam’s social history. These buildings were part of a grand experiment in affordable housing, way before it became a hot topic. It’s just one of the many ways Amsterdam has always been ahead of the curve.
Key Features
Now, let’s talk about what makes the Dubbeltjespanden special. First off, keep your eyes peeled for the unique typographic decorations on the side walls. They’re like little Easter eggs for the observant traveler. I remember the first time I noticed them – I was cycling past (as we Amsterdammers do) and nearly fell off my bike doing a double-take!
The architecture itself is a prime example of late 19th-century Dutch building style. You’ll notice the neat rows of windows, the classic brick facade, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some original features that have survived over a century of Amsterdam’s weather (and trust me, that’s no small feat).
But the real beauty of the Dubbeltjespanden isn’t just in its looks. It’s in the story it tells about Amsterdam’s commitment to its people. These buildings were more than just houses; they were a chance for working-class folks to own their own homes. It’s a philosophy that’s still alive and well in Amsterdam today.
And here’s a little tidbit for you history buffs: the Dubbeltjespanden were built by the Construction Company for the Establishment of Privately Owned Homes (BVEW). Bit of a mouthful, I know, but these guys were pioneers in their field.
Oh, and did I mention the location? The Dubbeltjespanden are smack dab in the middle of one of Amsterdam’s most vibrant neighborhoods. You’re just a stone’s throw away from some fantastic cafes, shops, and parks. It’s the perfect spot to start your Amsterdam adventure.
Best Time to Visit
Now, when’s the best time to check out the Dubbeltjespanden? Well, as an Amsterdam local, I’d say anytime is a good time – but I’m a bit biased. However, if you want my honest advice, aim for late spring or early autumn.
In late spring, around May, Amsterdam comes alive. The trees are green, the flowers are blooming, and the city has a certain energy that’s hard to describe. Plus, the weather is usually mild – perfect for a leisurely stroll to admire the architecture.
Early autumn, say September or early October, is another great time. The tourist crowds have thinned out a bit, and there’s a cozy feeling in the air. The changing leaves provide a beautiful backdrop for the brick buildings, and you might even catch a ray of that magical Dutch autumn light.
Summer can be lovely too, but be prepared for crowds and possibly some rain (we Amsterdammers are used to it, but visitors often forget their umbrellas). Winter has its own charm, with the possibility of seeing the Dubbeltjespanden dusted with snow, but it can be pretty chilly.
One thing to keep in mind – the Dubbeltjespanden are residential buildings, so you can’t go inside. But don’t let that stop you! The real beauty is in the exterior and the story behind it. Plus, the surrounding neighborhood is full of life at any time of year.
If you’re a photography enthusiast like me, early morning or late afternoon are great times to capture the play of light on the buildings. I once spent a whole afternoon trying to get the perfect shot of the typographic decorations in the golden hour light. My friends thought I was crazy, but hey, that’s the effect these buildings can have on you!
How to Get There
Getting to the Dubbeltjespanden is a breeze, especially if you’re already in central Amsterdam. But before I give you directions, let me share a quick tip: the journey can be just as interesting as the destination in Amsterdam, so keep your eyes open!
If you’re coming from Amsterdam Centraal Station, you’ve got a few options. The easiest is probably to hop on tram 14 towards Flevopark. Get off at the Alexanderplein stop, and you’ll be just a short walk away. The tram ride itself is a great way to see bits of the city you might otherwise miss.
For the more adventurous (or budget-conscious) travelers, I’d recommend renting a bike. It’s how most of us locals get around, and it’s a fantastic way to experience the city. From Centraal Station, it’s about a 15-minute ride. Just head east along the Prins Hendrikkade, then turn right onto the Valkenburgerstraat. You’ll find the Dubbeltjespanden just off this street.
Walking is always an option too, and it’s my personal favorite way to explore Amsterdam. From Centraal Station, it’s about a 30-minute walk. You’ll pass through some charming neighborhoods and maybe discover a cozy cafe or two along the way. Just follow the same route as the bike path – east along the waterfront, then right towards the Plantage neighborhood.
If you’re coming from another part of the city, the nearest metro station is Waterlooplein. From there, it’s just a short walk east.
One thing to remember – Amsterdam’s streets can be a bit of a maze, especially in the older parts of the city. Don’t be afraid to ask for directions if you get turned around. We Amsterdammers are a friendly bunch, and most of us speak English.
And here’s a pro tip from a local: if you’re using Google Maps, make sure to double-check the address. There are actually two Dubbeltjespanden complexes in Amsterdam, and you don’t want to end up at the wrong one!
Once you’re in the area, keep your eyes peeled for the distinctive brick buildings with their unique typographic decorations. And while you’re there, why not make a day of it? The nearby Artis Zoo is always worth a visit, or you could take a stroll through the beautiful Oosterpark.
Remember, the joy of Amsterdam is often in the unexpected discoveries you make along the way. So don’t stress too much about getting there quickly – take your time, enjoy the journey, and who knows what other hidden gems you might stumble upon?
Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just someone who loves to uncover the lesser-known stories of a city, the Dubbeltjespanden are well worth a visit. They might not be as famous as the Anne Frank House or the Van Gogh Museum, but they offer a unique glimpse into Amsterdam’s past and present.
So, next time you’re in Amsterdam, take a detour from the usual tourist spots and seek out the Dubbeltjespanden. Stand in front of these historic buildings, imagine the lives of the people who’ve called them home over the past century, and feel a connection to Amsterdam’s innovative spirit. And who knows? You might just fall in love with this quirky, beautiful city all over again. I know I do, every single day.