De Oude Schans in Netherlands

The Oude Schans or Oudeschans, initially known as the New Canal, is a wide canal in the heart of Amsterdam. The canal was excavated between 1515 and 1518 as an arm of the Amstel River as an added defense for the city. 

As part of the fortifications of the city, the tower, known as the Montelbaanstoren was built in 1516. In 1606 the tower was extended to include the decorative top half, which was designed by Hendrick de Keyser. 

In the late 16th century, new city walls were built to protect Amsterdam from the Spaniards and the New Canal was then within the city walls. At this time, the name of the canal was changed to Oude Schans.

De Oude Schans, Amsterdam 

by OldeWorldGifts

Vintage photomechanical print of the Oude Schans in Amsterdam in the Netherlands, which was taken towards the end of the 19th century.  Photograph courtesy LOC (LC-DIG-ppmsc-05779).

Visit OldeWorldGifts to see the range of products featuring this vintage photograph.