The etiquette of the mayoral chain (and why we don't always follow it in Amsterdam)

Since 1853, mayors in the Netherlands have worn a special chain. This chain is called the mayoral chain. It is a symbol that someone is a mayor.

In Amsterdam, mayors sometimes do not wear this chain. They usually wear the chain when they have an important task, such as leading a meeting or starting a celebration. But Amsterdam has its own rules.

Sometimes they choose not to wear the chain. So there are differences between Amsterdam and other cities in the Netherlands.