Pedaling alongside Amsterdam’s shimmering canals, the secret is simple: look up! While tourists focus on the waterways below, locals know the real stories are carved in stone above your head. These “gevelstenen” (gable stones) adorn historic houses along Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht. They aren’t just 17th-century street addresses—they’re time portals into the Dutch Golden Age, each whispering tales of merchant ambitions, family legacies, and quintessential Amsterdam humor.
I’ve spent years exploring these hidden gems by bike, and I’m excited to share Amsterdam’s most fascinating canal house emblems that 99% of visitors miss. By following this local’s guide, you’ll unlock secret stories that transform an ordinary canal ride into a treasure hunt through time, connecting you to Amsterdam’s heritage in a way guidebook-following tourists never experience.
Why Amsterdam’s Canal House Emblems Matter
Before street numbers existed, these ornate stone carvings identified buildings using symbols, from leaping hares to sailing ships. They served as practical navigation tools in the 17th century, but today, they’re open-air museum pieces that transform Amsterdam’s streets into history books.
The best part? You can discover these authentic cultural treasures while supporting sustainable tourism—no entrance fees, ticket lines, or carbon footprint required. Just grab a bike, follow this local route, and experience Amsterdam like a true Amsterdammer.
1. De Drie Hendricken (The Three Hendricks) – Bloemgracht 87–91
Location: Jordaan neighborhood, easily accessible via the dedicated cycle path along Bloemgracht
These three adjoining houses showcase matching stepped gables and exquisite stone tablets depicting Amsterdam’s prosperity trinity: farmer, merchant, and sailor. Built in 1642 at the peak of the Dutch Golden Age, “The Three Hendricks” visually narrates how agriculture, trade, and maritime prowess created the city’s wealth.
The emblems are a perfect introduction to gable stone culture. Park your bike at the public stands across the canal to get the best view. Visit in the morning light (before 11 a.m.) when the sun illuminates the intricate carvings that have watched over the Jordaan for nearly 400 years.
2. De Haes (The Hare) – Leidsegracht 37
Location: Grachtengordel (Canal Belt), at the beautiful intersection where Leidsegracht meets Keizersgracht
Above the elegant door of this 1666 canal house, a playful hare bounds across stone with the inscription “DE HAES.” This whimsical emblem cleverly puns on the original owner’s name or character—perhaps celebrating swiftness or fertility.
For the perfect photo opportunity, cycle here during “golden hour” (one hour before sunset) when warm light bathes the brick facades and the canal mirrors the centuries-old architecture in rippling reflections. The surrounding area brims with excellent coffee shops where the rich aroma of freshly ground beans welcomes you. Sip a velvety Dutch “koffie verkeerd” (similar to a latte) while watching Amsterdammers navigate the narrow streets with practiced ease—a sensory experience that embodies local Amsterdam life.
3. In de Vergulden Kater (The Gilded Tomcat) – Leidsegracht 97
Location: Grachtengordel, follow the protected bike lane along Leidsegracht
Look to spot this fat golden cat lounging on the façade with a mouse trapped beneath its paw! The stone bears the title “In den Vergulden Kater in de Nieuw Stad” (The Gilded Tomcat in the New City), marking its location in Amsterdam’s 1660s expansion.
What’s fascinating is that the current stone is in fact a meticulously carved replica—the original disappeared during 20th-century renovations until local sculptor Hans ‘t Mannetje recreated this cheeky cat. It’s a beautiful example of Amsterdam’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
Park your bike on Leidsegracht and walk the last few meters for the best view. Visit during spring or autumn to avoid summer crowds while enjoying pleasant cycling weather.
4. Huis ‘s Hertogenbosch – Dam 11 (Warmoesstraat 201)
Location: Centrum, tucked beside Dam Square
This narrow 16th-century house is adorned with a remarkable stone coat of arms of ‘s-Hertogenbosch (a Dutch city in Brabant). The detailed plaque depicts a miniature city wall and towers surrounded by green polders, with the name Hertogenbosch in Gothic script.
Built around 1590 by a businessman from that city, this house was an unofficial embassy to Amsterdam. The emblem even includes Saint John’s Cathedral tower, cheekily shown intact despite a fire that had damaged it in 1584.
Due to its central location, it’s best to lock your bike at one of the public bike racks on Dam Square and approach on foot. The building stands beside the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky yet is often overlooked—making it a true hidden gem for history enthusiasts.
See Related: Insider Secrets for Exploring Amsterdam on a Shoestring
5. De Hoop (Hope) – Palmgracht 33
Location: Jordaan, on the quiet Palmgracht street
On this peaceful Jordaan street, you’ll find a colorful stone tablet portraying Lady Hope: a robed female figure holding a large anchor with a falcon perched on her hand. This hope and safe harbor symbol was particularly apt for Jan Jacobsz, the 17th-century canal boat skipper who lived here by 1649.
What makes this emblem remarkable is its survival story. The original building collapsed during renovations in 1996, and the stone went missing! Thanks to Amsterdam’s gable stone preservation society, a replica now stands proudly, freshly painted in sky blue and gold.
The Jordaan area features dedicated bike lanes and low traffic, making it an easy stop on your cycling tour. Time your visit for weekend mornings when the nearby Noordermarkt farmers’ market offers local organic treats—a sustainable way to experience Amsterdam’s food culture.
6. De Swaen (The Swan) – Palmgracht 19–21
Location: Jordaan, just down the street from De Hoop
A graceful swan adorns the facade between these two addresses, telling a touching personal story. In 1681, Marritje Jacobs, the widow of sailor Jacob Pietersz Swaen (“Swan”), bought this property and installed a swan stone as a tribute to her late husband.
The swan likely symbolized love and fidelity (swans mate for life), making this a poignant memorial. Historical documents show that when Marritje’s heirs sold the house in 1722, it was described as “the house on Palmgracht, south side, De Swaen in the gable.”
The restoration of this stone in 1990 inspired local historians to found the Amsterdam Gable Stone Association in 1991, an organization now actively preserving these historical treasures throughout the city.
Combine visits to De Hoop and De Swaen on the same street. The Jordaan neighborhood offers numerous cyclist-friendly cafés where you can take a break with a traditional Dutch apple pie.
7. De Sonnenberg (The Sun Mountain) – Herengracht 361
Location: Grachtengordel, along the prestigious Herengracht (Gentlemen’s Canal)
This modest canal house carries a sunny secret: above its 17th-century wooden facade beam is a carved sun rising over the hill, the emblem named “Sonnenberg.” The original owner in the 1650s was Jan Gerritsz. Sonnenbergh, who immortalized his surname (literally “sun mountain”) in stone.
The gable stone shows a smiling golden sun peeking over a green hill—a charming visual pun that identified the house long before street numbers existed. The building is architecturally significant as a rare survivor of the early Amsterdam style; it retains a reconstructed trapezoidal gable from a 1962 restoration.
For cyclists, Herengracht offers dedicated lanes, though they can get busy. Visit on weekday mornings for quieter conditions and beautiful lighting for photography. The nearby Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) area is perfect for a sustainable shopping break at local boutiques.
8. “Nooit Weer” (Never Again) – Prinsengracht 9
Location: Jordaan edge, where Prinsengracht meets the Brouwersgracht
Proof that Amsterdam’s quirky house signs aren’t just ancient history! This 1970s gable stone shows a comically frazzled figure tearing his hair out with the Dutch words “Nooit Weer” (Never Again). Commissioned in 1976 by a homeowner exasperated by endless renovation woes, it’s a tongue-in-cheek nod to traditional gevelstenen.
Created by renowned sculptor Hans ‘t Mannetje (a key figure in gable stone restoration), this modern addition proves that the art of storytelling on Amsterdam’s walls is still thriving. It’s brightly painted and hard to miss—a delightful contrast to the canal’s antique ambiance.
This location is at the junction of two beautiful canals with excellent cycling infrastructure. Many locals consider the nearby Brouwersgracht Amsterdam’s most picturesque canal—perfect for continuing your bike tour.
9. Oorlogsschip (Warship) – Rapenburg 13
Location: Eastern Docklands, in the historic sailors’ quarter of Rapenburg
This brick warehouse from 1614 proudly bears the image of a 17th-century warship under full sail. Set in a classic stepped gable, the stone vividly depicts a tall-masted ship with gun ports bristling—you can even spot the cannon barrels!
The location is significant: this area was nicknamed the Peperwerf (“Pepper Wharf”), a Dutch East India Company shipyard where spices were unloaded. The builder was skipper Frans Gerritz, and the carving likely symbolized Amsterdam’s maritime power and trade connections.
During a 2018 restoration, the long-faded stone was repainted, revealing surprising details, including a tiny bird figure atop the stern that had been invisible for centuries.
This area lies just a short pedal from the magnificent Maritime Museum (Het Scheepvaartmuseum), making it a treasure trove for maritime history enthusiasts. After exploring, glide to the NEMO Science Museum’s wave-shaped rooftop for breathtaking city panoramas—a perfect cycling break that rewards you with Amsterdam’s most spectacular free viewpoint.
10. De Schip Vaart (The Ship Sails) – Binnen Bantammerstraat 27
Location: Nieuwmarkt area, tucked in Chinatown near Zeedijk
This weathered stone shows a stout little 17th-century cargo ship sailing along. Dated 1602, it’s considered the oldest house marker in the area—likely adorning the first brick house built at this spot (replacing an earlier wooden structure).
The vessel depicted is an early beurtvaarder (a ferry or packet boat) that provided regular transport between cities—the backbone of Dutch inland trade. Originally facing the waterfront (Kromme Waal), it was later moved to the side street, enduring centuries of renovations.
Even the metro’s 1970s construction couldn’t sink it—while many surrounding buildings were demolished, this stone was carefully preserved and reinstalled in a reconstructed facade by the 1980s.
Cycling in this area can be busy, so consider walking with your bike through the narrow streets. The nearby Nieuwmarkt Square offers ample bike parking and a vibrant weekend market—a perfect place to experience local Amsterdam life.
11. ‘t Schip China (The Ship China) – Buiten Brouwersstraat 20
Location: Haarlemmerbuurt, along the cyclist-friendly Buiten Brouwersstraat
This vibrant gable stone displays a full-rigged three-masted ship flying the Dutch tricolor with “‘t SCHIP CHINA” proudly chiseled below. This served as 17th-century advertising—marking a warehouse or merchant’s house trading in exotic Far Eastern goods when Amsterdam’s Asian commerce flourished.
By the mid-20th century, the old stone had weathered badly, but in 1979, master restorer Jan Hilbers painstakingly repaired and repainted it. Now, the ship’s details (from its high stern and gun ports to its billowing sails) are vividly visible, as if ready to embark on the Silk Route.
The Haarlemmerbuurt area offers excellent cycling infrastructure and is less crowded than the city center. Combine your visit with exploring the nearby Westerpark—a beautiful green space perfect for a sustainable picnic break.
See Related: Amsterdam Picnic Locations and Tips: Discover the Best Spots and Expert Advice
12. Het Hemelbed (The Heavenly Bed) – Sint Jansstraat 11
Location: Centrum, near Dam Square
This “Heavenly Bed” emblem is an unusual discovery — a half-lost, half-found treasure. During construction work, a fragment of a 1591 gable stone was unearthed, revealing the carved headboard of an ornate four-poster canopy bed with the letters “IGDFC”—an abbreviation of a Latin motto meaning “In Glory of God’s Son Christ.”
Historians reconstructed the missing half of the bed using a 16th-century woodcut by German artist Peter Flötner that matched the pattern. A faint seam on the stone still shows old versus new, but you’d hardly notice unless told.
The pious inscription and imagery hint that a devout furniture maker or bed seller operated here in 1591, perhaps advertising luxurious bedding with a prayerful twist.
Due to its central location, it’s best to park your bike at a nearby public bike rack and explore the area on foot. The surrounding streets offer numerous sustainable shopping options in historic buildings.
13. Het Spinneweb (The Spider Web) – Zeedijk 25
Location: De Wallen (Red Light District), along the historic Zeedijk street
One of Amsterdam’s most mesmerizing modern plaques is this stone spiderweb from 1978. Carved by renowned sculptor Hans ‘t Mannetje, this gevelsteen presents a delicate cobweb rendered with astonishing realism—so fine you almost expect the spider to scurry off the stone.
Look closely: the little spider is shown creeping over the frame’s edge, breaking the fourth wall of the sculpture! ‘t Mannetje created this piece for a business school, possibly as an allegory for methodical construction—symbolizing creation with reason and strategy.
The Dutch title is abbreviated “Vgl. Rede en Raads,” hinting at wisdom and counsel. Crafted when few were commissioning stone tablets, it helped rekindle interest in this traditional art form.
The Zeedijk area can be busy with pedestrians, so it’s recommended that pedestrians walk or bike. The street is known for its excellent Asian restaurants, which are perfect for a sustainable meal using local ingredients with international flavors.
14. Dit is in den Swarten Horen (This is at the Black Horn) – Zeedijk 16–18
Location: De Wallen, a few steps from Chinatown
Historians believe the oldest façade stone in Amsterdam’s public space dates to 1546 and displays a large black-and-gold ceremonial horn. The old Dutch inscription reads, “Dit is in den Swarten Horen” (This is at the Black Horn), which was the name of a tavern or guild hall on this spot.
Far from a postman’s horn, it represents a gilded drinking horn that guild members would pass around at banquets, each taking a hearty swig of beer. In an era before neon signs, such an image signaled to all that merriment and ale could be found within.
Amazingly, this stone survived the centuries intact, fully restored, and repainted in 1991 to its likely original colors. You can still make out the iron suspension, buckle on the horn, and the weathered text below.
Like the Spinneweb, this location is best approached on foot with your bike locked at a nearby rack. Morning visits offer the best lighting for photography and fewer crowds to navigate.
15. Het Walvisbeen (The Whale Bone) – Haarlemmerdijk 168
Location: Haarlemmerbuurt, along the bustling shopping street of Haarlemmerdijk
This canal-side shop boasts a whaling relic—a stone replica of one. In the 1600s, gigantic whalebones (typically jawbones) hung outside taverns and warehouses as eye-catching advertisements during Amsterdam’s whaling boom.
After the great fires of the 15th century, when wooden facades were replaced with brick, these outsized curiosities were often replicated by painted stone versions set into the wall. The Walvisbeen plaque is one such successor, marking a building that either stored whale oil and blubber or wanted to lure customers with a whaling theme.
Today, this carved stone panel showing the outline of that massive bone reminds passersby of the city’s Arctic adventures and early marketing gimmicks—1600s style! Haarlemmerdijk offers dedicated cycle paths and is a popular route for local cyclists. The street is lined with sustainable and locally-owned shops, perfect for finding unique souvenirs while supporting Amsterdam’s small businesses.
Insider Tips for Your Gable Stone Cycling Tour
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-April to early June and September to mid-October offer ideal cycling weather (13-20°C) and 30-40% fewer tourists than peak summer. Early mornings (8–10 a.m.) provide gorgeous soft lighting for photography and blissfully quiet canal-side cycling.
- Cycling Routes: Most emblems are located along Amsterdam’s canal belt and Jordaan neighborhood. The full circuit is about 8km and can be comfortably completed in 3-4 hours with stops.
- bike rental: Numerous sustainable bike rental shops offer traditional Dutch bicycles. Look for MacBike (near Central Station) or Black Bikes (multiple locations) for quality rentals. For €12-15 per day, you’ll get a perfectly maintained bike with built-in locks and lights—essential for exploring Amsterdam like a local.
- Weather Considerations: Always check the forecast—Amsterdam weather can change quickly. In case of rain, many emblems are still visible from under awnings and café terraces.
- Public Transport: If cycling isn’t your thing, most locations are accessible via tram routes 2, 4, and 13, which connect central Amsterdam with the western canal belt.
- Sustainable Choices: Support local businesses during your tour—Amsterdam’s independent cafés offer excellent coffee and apple pie for energy boosts between stops!
See Related: Amsterdam Travel Tips to Know
Final Thoughts
Amsterdam’s canal house emblems transform ordinary streets into living storybooks—each stone carving narrates tales of ambitious merchants, daring voyages, pious beliefs, and quintessential Dutch humor. These overlooked treasures connect curious explorers with four centuries of authentic urban history in a way glass-encased museum exhibits simply can’t match.
Next time you cycle along Amsterdam’s canals, remember to look up. These overlooked gems are eager to share their secrets with those who take the time to notice them. And isn’t that what sustainable, authentic travel is all about? Discovering the stories that make a place unique, one stone tableau at a time.
Have you spotted an incredible gable stone during your Amsterdam adventures? Snap a photo, note the location, and share your discovery in the comments below! Your hidden gem might become part of my next cycling tour—and help other travelers experience the authentic Amsterdam that lives above eye level.
This guide was created to promote sustainable tourism and cultural appreciation in Amsterdam. All emblems are visible from public streets and require no admission fees or resource consumption. By exploring on a bicycle, you’ll experience Amsterdam exactly as locals do while minimizing your environmental impact.