Spiegelkwartier
Art and antiques in Amsterdam
Stretching out into the Canal Ring from the Rijksmuseum, and owing much of its artistic heritage to that cultural landmark, the Spiegelkwartier – literally ‘Mirror quarter’ – is one of the city’s most charming neighbourhoods. Whether you’re a collector or an enthusiast, there is much to be discovered in the many galleries and atmospheric antique stores packed into the area’s historical houses and narrow streets.
History and culture in the Spiegelkwartier
The Spiegelkwartier’s reputation as a hub of arts and antiques began in the early 20th century when a handful of antique dealers set up shop in the neighbourhood. But it wasn’t until after the war that the area really flourished and took its place at the heart of the Dutch arts and antique trade. The main artery of the Spiegelkwartier is the beautiful Spiegelgracht and Nieuwe Spiegelstraat, lined with more than 80 independent art galleries and antique dealers trading in classic and contemporary treasure from all across the globe.
Rare objects from across the ages
From 17th-century furniture to Delft Blue ceramics, 19th-century jewellery to antique instruments, and rare curiosities and collectables from centuries gone by, there’s plenty to discover in the Spiegelkwartier’s many treasure troves. Art collectors meanwhile will find galleries displaying and selling everything from Ancient Greek art to 20th- and 21st-century works by icons like Andy Warhol and Banksy.
In the neighbourhood
The Spiegelkwartier is in the heart of the Canal Ring, so it’s easy to combine a trip there with a visit to a nearby museum or point of interest. The Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Stedelijk Museum extend from the southern tip of the Spiegelgracht, while the entertainment hub of Leidseplein and famous music venue Paradiso are just a five-minute walk along the canals.
Editor's pick: Combine your trip to the Spiegelkwartier with a visit to the Haarlemmerbuurt neighbourhood and a stroll around the nearby Nine Streets, known in Dutch as the Negen Straatjes.