One of Amsterdam's oldest streets is Warmoesstraat, with a very rich history. In the 16th century, the large houses were occupied by Amsterdam's wealthiest citizens. Joost van der Vondel had his stocking shop here and Jan Pieterszoon Coen, known from the VOC, lived there. After Amsterdam got more canals in the 17th century, the wealthy bourgeoisie moved to the beautiful canal houses on Herengracht and Prinsengracht. By 1980, not much remained of the glory days of that part of Amsterdam. Busy nuisance and street crime as well as vacancy caused the neighbourhood to deteriorate rapidly.
Today, the street is a busy entertainment area with hotel, restaurants shop and cafes. An example of these shops is the Cannabis Museum Shop and the souvenir shop next to it, which is reproduced in retro style in this picture to reflect the "look" of days gone by.
Photography has been my passion since 1975. Whereas in the past I often photographed people, I now mainly focus on photographing landscapes, nature and animals... Read more…