De Waag (Weigh House), Amsterdam

A medieval trading hub dating back to 1488 in the city, the Waag initially functioned as a customs house and a place for goldsmiths and silversmiths to conduct their work on the upper floors. Visitors can enter this historic building, now converted into a lively bar and restaurant, to admire its immense timber beams and a portion of the substantial old weighing scales.

Originally, the structure stood taller than its present form. During the early 16th century, city expansion plans led to the removal of the surrounding wall that once encircled it. As the walls were dismantled, only the gate remained, no longer serving a defensive purpose. The defensive canal and the area surrounding the gate were subsequently transformed into a bustling market square. The ground level was elevated, further altering the building's appearance.

It was within these walls that Rembrandt van Rijn, the renowned Dutch artist, found inspiration to create his masterpiece "The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolas Tulp", which brought him international acclaim. Beyond the 17th century, the Weighing House housed various institutions, including two museums and even a fire brigade. It wasn't until 1996 that the Waag Society took over the building, preserving its historic structure for future generations to appreciate.