When Did the Red Light District Start in Amsterdam?
One of the most famous places in the city is Red Light District which can be considered the most exotic and permissive district in the world since prostitution is legal in the Netherlands. And today it has become one of the most important sights of the city and an object of interest for people from all over the world. But when was this such district established?
The Historical Origins
Today the red light district of Amsterdam can be dated back to fourteenth century. Due to its strategic location it expanded in size and importance as most prominent trading post, therefore it attracted people of different origins, merchants and sailors mainly.
These sailors where mostly absent from their wives and families searching for amusement and leisure in the city of Amsterdam. Consequently, local authorities-defined focus points of prostitution, which were the tolerance zones, allowed brothels and prostitution.
with time, this tolerance zone grew and developed into what in present you referring to as the Red Light District.
The Development of the Red Light District
The area has developed with little governmental control for many years but as it developed, there were laws put forward to define the conduct of the Red Light District.
The other major event in the history of the Red Light District of Amsterdam was the passage of the law called, “Municipal Ordinance Regulating Prostitution” back in 1811. This ordinance was given with the noble intention of safeguarding the health of the general public and to eradicate the vices that are linked with such establishment.
It was mandatory for the prostitutes to get themselves registered, to present themselves for medical examination and to confine themselves to certain sectors. It continued to be developed more formally and structurally over time as further relations were written down at the district level.
Modern-Day Red Light District
Today the Red Light District is an integral part of the Netherlands’ capital and does not lose its popularity and tourists each year. This is mainly due to continued discussions about its social consequences and its respective legal status within the existence of unhappy controversy.
Second, it is noteworthy to remember that there is more to the Red Light District than sexual services. It is also an area that has stores, eateries and theaters and therefore the environment is very vibrant.
Understanding the Window Prostitution System
The most appropriate element of characteristic of the Red Light District area is the applicability of windows through which the prostitutes present themselves to the potential clients. Every such system functions according to certain regulations as to organization and control.
The prostitutes are legally allowed to operate in the Netherlands as long as the conditions set out by the authorities are adhered. Prostitutes are also required to be at least twenty-one years of age, possess a legitimate work visa, and can only engage themselves in prostitution or work in a legal brothel.
It is also to prevent any sort of exploitation that might transpire in such industries; these measures are for the safety of everyone involved.
Visiting the Red Light District
When visiting Amsterdam Red Light District, the following should be observed::
Treat the workers as fellow human beings: It is undeniable that the workers behind the windows are actual people and thus they must be respected.
No photography: One cannot take pictures or record any of the prostitutes or the district in any way. This again requires the investor to be well aware with his country’s laws and regulations.
Choose main roads: Especially when it is dark, one should avoid narrow backstreets since it is dangerous to be there.
Watch out for con artists: Scammers like any place of high Tourism, thrives in the Red Light District. Be alert and be careful with any activity going around the house.
To sum, doing it this way is possible to calmly and decently search for a prostitute in the Red Light District.
Conclusion
Prostitution in Amsterdam dates back to centuries and there are fascinating stories related to the Red Light District. Originally the place that sailors often frequented has turned into modern most popular culture and entertainment district.
Nonetheless, it can be beneficial to enter the district with the utmost respect and knowledge of the practices currently prohibited Since, however, the red-light district is filled with history and present conditions, it is a part of the city that travelers should not overlook.
Regardless of your decision to wine and dance, dine or just grasp the ambiance of the place; the Red Light District is a unique experience for visitors.
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