Dutch architecture

Dutch architecture includes the history of architecture within the current territory of the Netherlands, thereby excluding Belgium, which is often included in the broader term "the Low Countries". The distinct character of Dutch architecture was long denied; however, the richness of architectural creation in the Netherlands from the Middle Ages to the present day proves otherwise. Up until the 19th century, architecture in the Netherlands shared significant similarities with that of Flanders, as these two regions had a common culture until the Renaissance. Nevertheless, Protestant, commercial, pastoral, and free Holland since the 17th century does not resemble Catholic, industrious Flanders, which was long subjected to foreign rule. More concretely, unlike Flemish architecture, the use of stone in construction in the Netherlands has always been limited, as it is found only in very small quantities in the territory. This scarcity pushed the Dutch to adapt to an architecture primarily based on brick, which was even used in road paving.