Imagine walking through the streets of Nieuwmarkt and suddenly seeing an unusual shop. As soon as you open the door and step inside, you find yourself in a completely different time. In fact, this grocery shop, founded by Jacob Hooy in 1743, has almost the same interior as when it was established. The shop exudes a unique atmosphere that puts you in another world.
Back then, tobacco and opium were seen as medicines for various ailments, and the wooden snake that symbolised medicine back then still stands proudly in the shop. Although these products are no longer available today, you can still find products that claim to promote health.
The history of this shop is unique and the range of products has changed over the years. But the authentic atmosphere has remained and it is like travelling back in time as soon as you step in here.
Sources. Story: https://www.iamsterdam.com/nl/zien-en-doen/cultuur/beste-van/verborgen-parels-in-amsterdam / https://uniekewinkeltjes.com/20/jacob-hooy-gezondheidswinkel Photos: With gratitude to the Stadsarchief Amsterdam for making the attached photographs publicly accessible and preserving the city’s history for all.
