Inside De Wallen: The Secrets of the Amsterdam Red Light District
Amsterdam’s Legal Red Light District: The Oldest Profession with a Historic Twist
“Did you know Amsterdam’s Red Light District is one of the oldest legalized sex work zones in the world?”
Let’s go back in time — centuries ago, Amsterdam was already a bustling port city. Sailors and merchants from all corners of the globe would stop there to rest, trade… and seek pleasure. With so many transient workers passing through, a new demand emerged — and the city adapted.
By the 15th century, sex work in Amsterdam was already tolerated, especially around the harbor. But here’s the twist: instead of criminalizing it, the Dutch took a practical approach.
They regulated it.
This eventually gave rise to what we now know as De Wallen — Amsterdam’s famous Red Light District. The iconic red-lit windows became a way for sex workers to display their availability in a safe, direct, and controlled environment. No cat-calling. No dark alleyways. Just transparency.
Why Is It Legal?
In the Netherlands, sex work is considered a legitimate job. The government’s logic is simple:
> “If it’s going to exist anyway, better make it safe, taxable, and consensual.”
Sex workers in Amsterdam can:
Register with the chamber of commerce.
Rent legal spaces (windows, rooms, etc.).
Access healthcare and legal protections.
Refuse any client — no questions asked.
A Social Experiment or a Cultural Masterpiece?
While many outsiders view the Red Light District as “sinful” or controversial, the Dutch see it as a matter of freedom and harm reduction. Instead of driving the industry underground, they bring it out into the open — where safety, consent, and rights can be enforced.
Did you also know?
Prostitution in Amsterdam dates back over 600 years.
The red lights come from old red lanterns used on brothel windows.
There’s even a Prostitution Museum in the Red Light District.
How about you? would like to visit the red light district?
