A sailors’ haunt since the 14C, Amsterdam has always tolerated prostitution, domiciled since time immemorial in the Red Light District. The authorities have since 2007 sought to develop the area, to minimise its negative aspects and promote the positives. Young artisans have taken over vacant shops, made available to them at competitive rates. The aim is not to eliminate prostitution but to transform De Walletjes into an area associated with broader hedonistic “pleasures” and creativity.