Episode 12: Prostitution History in Amsterdam

They say prostitution is one of the oldest professions in the world. Here in Amsterdam it also goes back for centuries. All in all, prostitution development in Netherlands was quite similar to its development in other European countries, yet the outcome is dramatically different.During the Middle Ages the attitude towards prostitution was dual - on the one hand, it was considered necessary, in order to protect chaste women of the community; on the other hand, it was referred to as completely dishonest profession for women with no honor. In the 16th century views on prostitution became much more strict because of Protestant influence. Later on, however, the moralities had loosened up, and despite the official prohibitions, prostitution was prospering in Amsterdam. Initially brothels were very common, but they soon developed into gambling houses and musico's. These offered more luxurious and exuberant establishment where clients could amuse themselves talking and dancing with the ladies.Beginning of 19th century brought more stringent public morals and Napoleon. Napoleon implemented prostitution regulation system in France and also in the occupied countries. So here in the Netherlands prostitutes had to be registered by the police and had weekly health checks. However, once Napoleon was gone so were these regulations. After that, throughout 19th century, prostitution was seen as slavery, exploitation of women and undermining female rights. Various societies believed that ladies are to be saved from working as prostitutes. Some women working in this industry did not want to be saved though. This discussion had been going on for some time and by 20th century prostitution regulation practically disappeared. Over the course of last century the prostitution was becoming more and more official and in the year 2000 a ban for brothels was revoked and prostitution became officially completely legal.
Photo Joachim Beuckelaer - Brothel - Walters 371784 by Joachim Beuckelaer is licensed under public domain