Nightlife, cinema multiplex, tram junction - the Leidseplein actually developed as a sort of car park, where farmers from out of town would leave their carts when entering the old city. There was a city gate here - the Leidsepoort, which was demolished in 1862.

On hot summer evenings, the Leidseplein is filled with those disgusting smelling portable urinals because the hoards of youngsters who flock to hang out on terraces and in bars apparently cannot make it home.