The Dutch used to describe Ciliwung as a clean, clear and beautiful river flowing through the city center like a lifeline. That was Ciliwung of the old days, when it could still be used as a source of drinking water, fishing, laundry and bathing. The river was wide and deep, allowing ships and boats to enter and anchor down where Ciliwung approaches the Sunda Kelapa harbor. Boats would be sent upstream to collect fresh water in urns, because the river was still relatively clean.