House from 1540

Here you see one of the oldest houses in Alkmaar, built in 1540, situated on Kanisstreet number 1.

A ‘kanis’ is a pedlar’s basket and because the house is situated near an old almshouse you may assume that pedlar’s went to the almshouse often to sell their items.

The façade is that of a typical medieval shop. The shutters at the bottom of the window could be used as a counter when opened. The porch roof kept customers dry in case of rain.

We are lucky the house was fully restored in 1985. Until recently it was used for a local arts club but it is now a private property.