My last article mentioned a few noteworthy artists from Netherlands. So far, I've covered must-see attractions, tulips and, as an reader so aptly pointed out, must-do artists. This week, I will mention a few of the quirkier attractions in Netherlands, specifically in Amsterdam. 

Photo Source: Daveness_98 via Flickr

The Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug)

As the name suggests, this is one of the narrowest bridges in Amsterdam. In all honesty, Magere Brug used to be famous as one of the skinniest bridge in the country but that status changed 200 years ago. That was around the time when city planners overcame traffic congestion and other fretful worries by expanding the bridge.

The bridge itself was built in the late 17th Century. In its heyday, it was so narrow that it was pretty much a one-man walking lane. The original bridge was a quaint number with sweeping arches but it was remodeled over the years. The current design is said to resemble some of the older designs.

TwitPic lovers and Flickr fans can snap a shot of this bridge when they reach the Kerkstraat and Oude Kerkstraat junction.

Photo Source: S Sepp via Wikipedia

Stelling van Amsterdam

Talk about a modern day moat! Stelling van  Amsterdam will certainly capture the imagination of the history buff. It is an expansive line of fortifications that, in theory, allowed authorities to flood nearby areas and fend off an attack. Think of it as Amsterdam as the last standing city against a horde of attackers.

Stelling van Amsterdam is also known as the “Defense line of Amsterdam”. It is quite extensive wall that stretches out to 135 km. Furthermore, not only does it surround the city but there are 40+ forts that will keep watch over incoming offensives.

This fancy fortification had combined the best of Dutch knowledge and cultural heritage and yet, it was not used for its prime purpose. Nonetheless, international organizations marveled at the genius behind this construction and thus, it soon saw itself on the list of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites.

Photo Source: DymphieH via Flickr

Narrowest House

It may not be the narrowest house in the world but it certainly is a stronger contender for the tile of Narrowest House in Netherlands. Stroll down Singel canal in Amsterdam and you will come across this home that displays a meek little 1 meter width.

Admittedly, the rest of the house is wider; seems like the house expands as you go further into the house. Do note, this is not a public access attraction so I wouldn't advise knocking on the door for a small tour of the home.

Photo Source: unforth via Flickr

Begijnhof

If anything will dispel the dreaded Drugs with R&R image of Amsterdam, it is this charming attraction. Imagine a delightful courtyard containing a blossoming garden area and surrounded by old buildings.  By the way, these buildings offer a glimpse into architectural tendencies of the past hundreds of years.

The exact date of establishment is a bit of a mystery but some claim that the place probably dates back to the 14th Century. It used to be a Beguinage – a convent of sorts – and currently serves as housing for folks. There is also a cozy old church in this midst so it can be an interesting stopover point for history fans out there.

Be it the idyllic garden or the interesting stories of the turbulent past, the Begijnhof is one of those little known sites that continue to delight visitors.

Photo Source: Bjorn Giesenbauer via Flickr

Bridges, skinny homes and Beguinages – there is certainly more to Netherlands than meets the eye.