Inside | Amsterdam: Herberg Blauw Jan / Tavern Blauw Jan

A little bit of odd history today. These kind of things would be frowned upon today, but in the 17th century it was a novelty. Exotic animals in tiny cages, on display at the local tavern. And not only animals but people as well. On the Kloveniersburgwal, right in the city centre, you could find tavern Blauw Jan.

Famous for it's bird cage in the middle of the courtyard. And for the lions, flamingo's and monkeys. They even traded in them and sold animals to the French court. You would find all kinds or rarities at Blauw Jan, a few even stayed there voluntary. Like a Finnish giant and a 75cm high Dutch farmer. But most of the attractions were bought. Like the American Mohawk Indian they had on display.

People came from far the see the exotics, and study them. Nowadays you go to Artis.

#amsterdam #current