Walking or cycling through Amsterdam, you can’t miss them. They are on the flag, the brown poles lining the sidewalks (known as Amsterdammertjes), souvenir mugs, and even tattooed on the locals. Three vertical white crosses on a black stripe, flanked by red. The famous “XXX”.
For many visitors, the immediate association is with the Red Light District or an adult rating. But the truth is far older, more historic, and significantly more “family-friendly.” (If you’re curious about the neighborhood behind the stereotype, read our article on Amsterdam’s Red Light District: past, present, and future.)
At Yellow Bike, we get asked this question on almost every tour. So, let’s dive into the history, the debunked myths, and the cultural impact of the three Saint Andrew’s Crosses of Amsterdam. Want to explore the city on two wheels with a guide? Check out our Amsterdam by Bike tour.
The Meaning of the 3 crosses according to historians: The Coat of Arms
The three crosses are the centerpiece of the Coat of Arms of Amsterdam. To understand the symbol, we have to look at the design as a whole. (If you want a quick, official-style overview of Amsterdam’s city symbols, read this explainer by I amsterdam.)
- The Red Background: Represents the land.
- The Black Stripe: Represents the water, specifically the Amstel River, around which the city was built.
- The Three White Crosses: These are Saint Andrew’s Crosses (saltires).
Historically, St. Andrew was a fisherman who was martyred on an X-shaped cross in the 1st century AD. The symbol is often linked to medieval heraldry in the Amsterdam region, with historians noting a possible connection to the Persijn family (who were lords of Amsterdam for a brief period). The Stadsarchief Amsterdam discusses this uncertainty and the possible Persijn link here: Wapen van Ouder-Amstel (Stadsarchief Amsterdam).
So, in its simplest official form: The three X’s are Saint Andrew’s crosses used as a heraldic city symbol.
The Most Popular Theories (and Myths)
While the heraldic explanation is the most historically accurate, it’s a bit dry. Over the centuries, Amsterdammers have created their own legends to explain the crosses. If you ask a local, you might hear one of the following theories.
Myth 1: Fire, Floods, and the Plague
This is the most romantic and widely told story. The theory suggests that each cross represents one of the three major catastrophes that historically threatened the city:
- Fire: With its wooden houses, medieval Amsterdam suffered devastating fires (notably in 1421 and 1452).
- Floods: As a city below sea level, the threat of water was constant before modern dikes.
- The Plague: The Black Death hit the city multiple times, claiming thousands of lives.
While this story fits the city’s motto, Heldhaftig, Vastberaden, Barmhartig (Valiant, Steadfast, Compassionate), there is no historical evidence that the crosses were designed with these specific disasters in mind. It is likely a legend created after the fact to give the symbol deeper meaning.
Myth 2: The Red Light District Rating
Let’s clear this one up immediately: The three X’s have nothing to do with the adult entertainment industry. (I amsterdam also explicitly debunks this common assumption in their overview of Amsterdam’s symbols: Decoding Amsterdam’s city symbols.)
The association between “XXX” and pornography/adult content is a modern invention, largely stemming from the motion picture rating system in the United States. The Amsterdam coat of arms dates back to the 16th century—long before films were invented. The similarity is purely coincidental, though souvenir shops in the Red Light District certainly capitalize on the double entendre.
The 3 ‘XXX’ in Modern Culture and Tattoos
Today, the three crosses have transcended their heraldic roots to become a symbol of rebellion, pride, and counter-culture. If you want more local insight into how Amsterdammers experience the city beyond the clichés, take a look at our Yellow Bike Team Tips: Explore Amsterdam like a local.
In the 1970s and 80s, the symbol was reclaimed by the squatters’ movement and punk scene. It became a shorthand for “Amsterdammer” identity—gritty, direct, and proud.
The Ajax Connection
You cannot talk about the crosses without mentioning AFC Ajax, the city’s legendary football club. The team incorporates the city’s symbols into their captain’s armband and merchandise. For football fans, wearing the three X’s is a sign of loyalty to the club and the city.
Amsterdam Tattoos
It is arguably one of the most popular tattoos for locals and expats alike. The minimalist design of three vertical crosses fits perfectly on a forearm, finger, or calf. Unlike typical tourist tattoos, getting the “XXX” is often seen as a badge of honor for those who have lived in and loved the city. It signifies that you are part of the fabric of Amsterdam.
Spotting the X’s on a Bike Tour
One of the best ways to see how integrated this symbol is into daily life is from the saddle of a bike. When you join us at Yellow Bike, keep your eyes peeled. You will see the crest on:
- Amsterdammertjes: The iconic steel bollards preventing cars from parking on sidewalks (though many are being removed to create more space, the classics remain). (Fun fact: even these bollards carry the three crosses—see the background on the Amsterdammertje.)
- Architecture: Look up at the gables of old buildings; the crest is often carved into the stone.
- Bridges: Many of the city’s 1,200+ bridges feature the shield in their ironwork.
- Municipal Vehicles: From trash trucks to trams.
Planning to explore Amsterdam independently by bike? Our guide to cycling rules in the Netherlands will help you stay safe and legal.
Next time you’ll see the flag…
The three X’s of Amsterdam are a perfect example of how history and urban legend blend together. Whether they represent the noble Persijn family or the dangers of fire, flood, and plague, they ultimately stand for the resilience of this city.
Next time you see the flag on a canal boat or printed on a t-shirt, you’ll know it’s a mark of pride for one of the most historic cities in Europe. Want more inspiration for your itinerary? Check our list of free things to do in Amsterdam.