The wailing tower is a medieval tower in the centre of Amsterdam. Once Amsterdam, like any medieval town was surrounded by strong walls. Then most of the walls were destroyed and the city was growing, but part of the walls – mostly of the tower is intact and were used in a new capacity.

The wailing tower was built in 1487 and was called Schrayershoucktoren – Angled tower, because the tower wall turned at a sharp angle. Over time, the name of the tower began to be pronounced as Schreierstoren from the word "cry", allegedly at the tower seamen's wives were crying, seeing them in a long voyage. Weeping women, of course, is a legend, but from here in 1609 launched the famous expedition of Henry Hudson (Hudson river) in search of a Western route to India. The expedition was organised on behalf of and at the expense of the East India company. In it was described a significant portion of the coast of North America. The name of Henry Hudson named the Hudson river and Hudson Bay in North America. In September 1927 the tower was installed a plaque telling about the expedition.

In 1966 the tower was restored, it took considerable work on the reconstruction of the building. Round tower with thick walls and sharp hip roof, invariably attracts the attention of tourists. Large Windows in the walls – of course, are a modern addition. Now in the tower is a cafe. Near the tower is the Basilica of St. Nicholas.