NeighbourhoodOude Zijde / Waterfront
Medieval Landmarks
The Weeping Tower
A 15th-century defensive bastion where maritime legends meet the historic voyage of Henry Hudson.
Best forHistory buffs and maritime enthusiasts
Plan for30 minutes for a quick look and coffee
Worth knowingIt is one of the few remaining parts of the medieval city walls.
Introduction
Amsterdam's Harbour Sentinel
The Schreierstoren, widely known as the Weeping Tower, is a striking example of medieval military architecture located on the Prins Hendrikkade. Built in 1487, it originally served as a defensive fortification at the corner of the city's wall, providing a strategic vantage point over the IJ river and the bustling harbour. Its rounded brick facade and sturdy construction are rare survivors of the city's 15th-century fortifications.
While its primary purpose was defense, the tower has become deeply embedded in Amsterdam's cultural fabric through maritime lore. Today, the building is a protected Rijksmonument. It no longer guards against invaders but instead welcomes visitors to its interior café, offering a unique opportunity to sit within walls that have witnessed over five centuries of Dutch history.
Origins
From Bastion to Legend
The tower was completed in 1487 as part of a larger project to fortify Amsterdam. During this era, the city was expanding rapidly, and the Schreierstoren acted as a crucial anchor point for the walls that protected the eastern side of the harbour. Its name, 'Schreierstoren,' is the subject of significant debate. Local legend suggests it derives from the Dutch word 'schreien' (to weep), referring to the sailors' wives who supposedly stood here to cry as their husbands departed for dangerous long-haul voyages.
However, historians often point to a more technical origin. The name likely comes from 'schray' or 'scherp,' meaning 'sharp,' referring to the sharp angle the city wall made at this specific location. Regardless of the etymology, the tower gained international fame in 1609 when Henry Hudson set sail from this vicinity on his ship, the Halve Maen. This expedition, funded by the Dutch East India Company, eventually led to the discovery of Manhattan and the Hudson River.
What to See
Maritime Markers and Architecture
Commemoration
Henry Hudson Plaque
Look for the bronze plaque placed by the Greenwich Village Historical Society in 1927, commemorating Hudson's 1609 departure for the New World.
Architecture
Medieval Brickwork
Observe the thick, rounded walls and narrow windows, classic features of 15th-century defensive towers designed to withstand naval attacks.
Atmosphere
The Tower Café
The interior now functions as a café and bar, allowing you to enjoy a drink while surrounded by the original historic masonry.
Visitor Experience
A Moment in Time
Morning
Quiet Reflection
Visit early in the day to photograph the exterior without the crowds that gather near the nearby Centraal Station.
Afternoon
Harbour Views
Stop by for a coffee break. The terrace offers a view of the modern Oosterdok, providing a sharp contrast to the tower's ancient origins.
Evening
Illuminated History
The tower is often lit up at night, highlighting its silhouette against the water and making it a landmark for evening walks.
Visuals
The Tower Through the Ages
The Schreierstoren stands as a physical bridge between medieval Amsterdam and the modern city. Its location at the edge of the old city center makes it a frequent subject for photographers capturing the intersection of land and water.
Information
Visiting the Tower
The tower is located at Prins Hendrikkade 94, just a short walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station. While the exterior is free to view at any time, access to the interior is managed by the café and venue operators.
Access
Public Entry
You can enter the tower by visiting the café. It is a popular spot for small meetings or a quick refreshment.
Location
Finding It
It is situated on the corner where the Geldersekade meets the Prins Hendrikkade, overlooking the water.
Bookable experiences
Experiences around Weeping Tower.
Some links may earn Amsterdam Explorer a commission, at no extra cost to you. The booking content appears only after you accept optional content.
Directions
Getting There
The Weeping Tower is exceptionally easy to reach. It is less than a five-minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station. Simply exit the station towards the city center and walk east along the Prins Hendrikkade. The tower's distinct rounded shape is visible from a distance.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called the Weeping Tower?⌄
Legend says it was where sailors' wives wept as their husbands left for sea, though the name likely stems from a medieval word for a 'sharp' corner in the city wall.
Can you go inside the tower?⌄
Yes, the tower houses a café and event space, allowing visitors to see the interior brickwork.
What is the connection to New York?⌄
Henry Hudson departed from this location in 1609 on the voyage that led to the Dutch settlement of New Amsterdam, now New York City.