The Rozengracht

We are standing at the corner of Rozengracht, right in front of the charming Rozenhofje in the Jordaan. Once, a real canal flowed here: in the 17th century, it was part of Amsterdam's water system. But in 1890, the canal was filled in — the water was polluted, and the city wanted to make space for traffic and improve hygiene.

Today, Rozengracht is a lively street with shops, trams, and traffic, but its name still hints at the water that once flowed through it.

In front of us is the Rozenhofje, a quiet courtyard hidden behind a gate on the street. It was founded in the 18th century to house elderly, single women — a purpose it still serves today. 

The houses are small, with windows facing a shared garden. In 1987, the courtyard was thoroughly renovated, and it now houses independent older women in a close-knit community.

Sometimes the gate is open and you can peek inside.