Noordermarkt (Northern Market)

Noordermarkt (Northern Market) Review

In 1620, as the Jordaan expanded, city planners decided to build a church at this end of town for poorer residents. The Noorderkerk (Northern Church) designed by Hendrick de Keyser (who else?) and completed after his death by his son Pieter, was built on egalitarian lines in the form of a 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 a market, and the commerce is still notable. On Mondays, there's a flea market, with a textile market on Westerstraat, and on Saturdays, there's a popular organic farmers' market with a general market along Lindengracht. There are excellent eating opportunities around the square, including a foodies' favorite, Bordewijk (Noordermarkt). Other restaurants on Westerstraat, including De Buurman (Westerstraat 30, 020/625-2428), are also top-notch.