"Waag" is a singular, monofunctional architectural style prevelant in the Dutch Republic (1581-1795), principally in the provinces of Holland and Friesland. Its development came during the time of the so-called "Golden Century" (1585-1670). Unlike multifunctional commercial building styles prevalent in the rest of Europe at this time, the Dutch weighhouses all had weighing as their primary function located on the ground floors, and several sub-types were developed that are identified and described.