Oudezijds Kolk
The Oudezijds Kolk is a narrow sluice that runs from the Oosterdok to the Oudezijds Voorburgwal. The Kolksluis (Kolk Sluice) is one of Amsterdam’s oldest locks still in function dating from the Middle Ages. The main functions of the Kolk Sluice are the protection against high tide and refreshing the water in the canals. When the locks were closed, the water of the river Amstel would fill the canals, raising the water level. By opening the locks at low tide water would rush to the sea and thus the canals would be refreshed. In Dutch, this process is called spuien (sluicing). At the Oudezijds Kolk are a few remaining 17th and 18th century warehouses.
Located within the famous Red Light District (De Wallen) in Amsterdam, is the Armbridge (De Armbrug). From this bridge, you have a nice view of some old houses and the 'Oudezijds Kolk'. In the back you can see the main tower of the Basilica of Saint Nicholas (Basiliek van de H. Nicolaas).
