In 1620, city planners decided to build a church for those too lazy to walk to Westerkerk. Noorderkerk (Northern Church), designed by Hendrick de Keyser and completed after his death by his son Pieter, was the first Protestant church that featured a new—more democratic—ground plan, which was formed by the Greek cross (four equal arms) with the pulpit in the middle. Until 1688, the surrounding square, Noordermarkt, was a graveyard whose residents were moved to make room for its present—albeit now sporadic—function as a market. The Maandag Morgen Noordermarkt (Monday Morning Northern Market), popularly known as the Monday Morning Flea Market, with an enjoining textile market on Westerstraat, is one of the city's most scenic and best-kept secrets. It's also a prime place to see the typically pragmatic sales techniques of the locals in action. Most restaurants on this street, including De Buurman (Westerstraat 30. 020/425-0788) are top-notch.
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