Torensluis, Amsterdam

Built during the mid-17th century and boasting a width of 42 meters, the Torensluis ("tower lock") stands as the widest bridge in the city and ranks among its most ancient. The bridge's remarkable dimensions, as well as its name, can be attributed to the tower that once occupied this spot until its demolition in the mid-19th century. Evidence of the tower's presence endures in the bridge's pavement and the dungeon beneath it, both still bearing visible traces. Visitors should also keep an eye out for the prison cells tucked beneath the bridge, featuring barred windows and an arched entrance. These cells are now open to the public, often hosting events and exhibitions.

The area today retains much of its appearance from the Dutch Golden Age in the 1600s. During this period, Amsterdam's seafaring merchants held sway over the oceans, establishing trading colonies in distant lands like present-day Indonesia. Fueled by this prosperity, the city rapidly evolved into a prominent urban hub, replete with grand residences. Each merchant sought to outdo their neighbor in architectural splendor. Rotate your view 360 degrees and admire the diverse array of buildings.

Beyond the panoramic vistas, the bridge's attractions include a statue honoring writer Multatuli, a significant figure in Dutch literature and a staunch anti-colonialist. Additionally, you can revel in the expansive, sunlit terraces offered by Villa Zeezicht and Caf茅 van Zuylen.

Tip:
Seek a spot to savor the surroundings. Lean against the railing, find a bench to sit on, or perhaps pause your tour for a refreshment break at one of the highly recommended, charming bars that spill onto the bridge. Caf茅 van Zuylen (Sun-Thu: 10am鈥�1am; Fri, Sat: 10am鈥�3am), in particular, is renowned for its diverse beer selection. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the area.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Amsterdam. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Torensluis
Sight Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands (See walking tours in Amsterdam)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Western Canal Belt Walking Tour

Walking Tours in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Create Your Own Walk in Amsterdam

Creating your own self-guided walk in Amsterdam is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.

Amsterdam's Historical Churches Walking Tour

The history of Amsterdam is deeply intertwined with its religious heritage. The city is home to several historical churches, each with its own unique charm and significance. These religious sites serve as both spiritual centers and architectural treasures that provide insight into the city's past.

Our walk starts in the Central Station area and leads you to visit the eight most prominent... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles

City Center Walking Tour

The inner-most borough and historic heart of Amsterdam, known locally as Centrum, is a tightly woven network of canals and overlapping micro-neighborhoods, each bursting with their own unique vibe and history. Formerly a working-class area, this district is reputed for its traditional community spirit, radical politics and historic brown bars.

Here, all within an easy walking distance you will... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles

Southern Canal Belt Walking Tour

The Canal District, known as Grachtengordel in Dutch, is a globally renowned example of urban planning and architectural excellence within Amsterdam. This area has remained remarkably well-preserved for over four centuries, celebrated for its charming small bridges, canal crossings, and 17th-century residences. Encircling the Old City Centre in a horseshoe shape, the Canal Ring encompasses three... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles

Jordaan Walking Tour

The Jordaan district of Amsterdam is a popular neighborhood renowned for its charming, narrow streets, quaint courtyards, and picturesque canals. Replete with beautiful historic houses, many of which have been converted into cozy caf茅s, trendy boutiques, and art galleries, this district has a distinctive atmosphere that sets it apart from other areas in the city.

The Jordaan was originally... view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles

Red Light District Walking Tour

Amsterdam's Rosse Buurt (Red Light District) has been the subject of much fascination for centuries. The medieval part of it, also the largest, known as De Wallen (or De Walletjes), is particularly famous for its fantastic juxtaposition of age-old architecture, leaning canal houses, narrow alleys lined with old-school bars, quaint shops and late-night pursuits. Of course, the main draw here... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles

Amsterdam Food Tour

Amsterdam's food scene is a delightful fusion of local traditions and global influences. Making your way through the interlocking canals, pretty bridges, and a maze of streets laden with diverse eateries and bars may easily render you hankering for a bite to eat and/or a drink to wash it down with.

The diverse culinary landscape of Amsterdam caters to a wide range of tastes and... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles

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