The Netherlands, explained in English · Tuesday 27 October 2026Tue 27 Oct

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The Netherlands, explained

Wallen

The Wallen (officially De Wallen) is the red-light district in the old centre of Amsterdam, known for its canals, narrow streets and windows where sex workers offer their services. Prostitution is legal and regulated in the Netherlands, and the municipality licenses the windows, so the area is both a tourist landmark and a focus for police and city enforcement against crime such as trafficking and exploitation.

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