Unknown Facts: Why don’t people of Netherlands wear curtains? What is the secret of open windows?

If you walk through a Dutch neighborhood in Europe at dusk, one thing will immediately strike you. The lights of the houses are on, people are sitting on the sofa, someone is having dinner, someone is watching TV and all this is clearly visible from the road. At first glance it seems as if the entire area is throwing an “open house” party.

While in many countries the curtains are drawn as soon as it gets dark, in the Netherlands the windows are often left open. So do people really want people passing by to see their lives? The story is much funnier than this. Let us know why people of Netherlands do not use curtains.

staring is prohibited

First of all, know that if the windows are open, it does not mean that you start peeping inside their houses. It’s okay if you catch a glimpse while walking. But keep standing and peeping inside? It is not considered correct at all. That means Dutch people understand their privacy, they just decide it not by walls but by behavior.

Climate is the reason

The sun remains like a guest in the Netherlands for many months of the year. That means less is visible. In such a situation, it is wise to let in as much light as possible. The house looks brighter, the mood improves. This reason is understandable during the day, but the interesting thing is that even at night the curtains are often found open.

There is a connection with Calvinism.

Often this habit is linked to old religious influence. It is believed that the thinking that gives importance to simplicity and honesty led people towards openness – curtains are open, life is open. The message is simple: “Look, everything is normal.” Although today’s Netherlands is quite modern and secular, still this culture of transparency has survived somewhere in the behavior of the people.

world war

The second story is related to the World War. At that time, there were strict rules that house lights should not be visible outside at night. Thick curtains, covered windows – everything was a compulsion. When the war ended, people heaved a sigh of relief and allowed the light to come out freely. Some people believe that opening the curtains became a small celebration of independence.

What is the real reason?

Perhaps it is a mix of many reasons, history, habit, design, and society’s trust. Dutch people do not close their house like a fort, but consider it a part of the neighborhood. So the next time you see a dinner table from a Dutch window, smile and move on. Remember – it is okay to look, not to stare!