The Albert Cuyp Market

The market on Albert Cuypstraat is the most famous market in the Netherlands and perhaps the largest daytime market in Europe. More than 260 stalls can be found there, and the market is open every day from early morning until six in the evening, except on Sundays. In the time of the Binnendijksche Buitenveldertsche Polder, the Zaagmolensloot ran here.
This ditch stretched from the Amstel to a small harbor near what is now Frans Halsstraat. Since the 17th century, sawmills stood here, a defining feature of the polder. By the end of the 19th century, the mills had to make way for new construction plans, and the ditch was filled in. Around 1900, De Pijp had about 50,000 inhabitants, making it an attractive market for street vendors.
Due to the width of Albert Cuypstraat, this was the place where they gathered with their wooden carts. The first generation of Albert Cuyp merchants was born. In 1905, Albert Cuyp officially became a market.
In fact, a day in Amsterdam is not complete without a visit to the Albert Cuyp. On a busy Saturday, more than 40,000 people come here. The wide selection of products from both domestic and international sources explains the market's popularity. Exotic products are often found here first due to the presence of many nationalities in De Pijp. In 2005, the market celebrated its centenary, attended by Queen Beatrix as well.

For more information, you can listen to tracks 7 and 8 of MP3/i-pod files. http://www.oudzuid.amsterdam.nl/kunst_en_cultuur/stadswandeling_de

Toineke