Accijnstoren

The Accijnstoren, or Excise Tower, is a prominent historical landmark situated along the waterfront in Alkmaar, Netherlands. Built in 1622, this square brick tower originally served a vital economic function as the city's tax office. Here, excise duties were collected on goods being transported in and out of Alkmaar by water. Its strategic location allowed officials to monitor the bustling canal traffic and trade efficiently.

The architecture of the Accijnstoren is a beautiful example of the Dutch Renaissance style. The structure features stepped gables, natural stone decorations, and a distinctive weather vane adorning its roof. A fascinating piece of its history occurred in 1924 when the entire tower was physically moved four meters on rollers to accommodate the widening of the adjacent road and bridge.

Today, the Accijnstoren stands as a picturesque reminder of Alkmaar's rich trading history. While it is generally not open to the public for interior tours, its striking exterior makes it a favorite subject for photographers. It remains a popular point of interest for those strolling along the scenic Noordhollandsch Kanaal or participating in a city boat tour.

Weather…

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	4	4	6	9	13	16	18	18	15	12	8	5
Rain mm	75	64	53	40	57	63	81	90	70	78	76	81

Practical info

Getting thereLocated near the city center of Alkmaar by the canal, an easy walk from the main train station.

Best time to visitDaytime for clear photography, or during a classic canal cruise.

Good to knowYou generally cannot go inside, but it makes for an excellent photo stop.

Tips

Take a city boat tour for a great view of the tower from the water.
Look for the informational plaque near the building to read more details.
Enjoy a scenic walk along the historic canal path afterwards.

FAQ

What was the original purpose of the Accijnstoren?

It was built in 1622 as a tax office to collect duties on goods transported by water.

Can you go inside the tower?

The interior is not generally open to the public, but the exterior is highly picturesque.

What makes its history unique?

In 1924, the entire building was physically moved four meters on rollers to widen the adjacent road.

Where exactly is it located?

Along the Noordhollandsch Kanaal in Alkmaar, an easy walk from the city center.

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View location: Netherlands