The kaasmarkt (cheese market) in Alkmaar is one of the most well known attractions in the Netherlands. Although very touristy is a visit to the market worthwhile.

Almost 700 years ago, Alkmaar was already a cheese town. Based on historical records it appears that the city owned one pair of cheese scales in the year 1365, but this increased to four in 1612. Thee cheese carrier’s guild is first mentioned seven years later. However the year of 1593 is considered the start of the cheese market. Since the beginning it has always taken place on the Waagplein at the foot of the beautiful Waag (Weigh House).

In the 17th century, cheese was traded on Fridays and Saturdays from May until All Saint’s Day. In the 18th century there were cheese markets on four days a week, which lasted until one o’clock at night. The square was gradually becoming too small for all the cheese. Markets were the economic engine in those days, so houses were sometimes demolished to increase market space.

Nowadays the folkloric cheese market is a show put on for tourists from around the world, rather than an active center of trade in cheese. From April to September inclusive, one can find out how cheese is traded according to the century-old traditions every Friday from 10am.