Winkel van Sinkel, First department store in Utrecht, Netherlands
Winkel van Sinkel is a former department store on the Oudegracht canal in Utrecht, distinguished by cast iron columns and four large female statues adorning its neoclassical façade. The interior preserves historic architectural features while accommodating dining venues and event spaces.
Anton Sinkel founded this retail business in 1837, transforming a modest fabric shop into a major commercial operation. The building later became a symbol of Utrecht's commercial growth and modernization during the 1800s.
The store's name inspired a Dutch saying suggesting you could find anything here, from needles to ship anchors. This folk expression shows how the place captured people's imagination and became part of everyday speech.
The building is easily recognizable from the canal and centrally located in the old town, making it accessible on foot. Its various sections including a wine bar, café, and event spaces can be visited independently or explored together.
When installing the four large female statues on the façade, the city's crane malfunctioned and collapsed into the canal. Local residents commemorated this accident by composing a verse that has survived to this day.
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