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 Many exhibits |
Oude Turfmarkt 127 Amsterdam 1012 GC Netherlands +31 (0)20 525 2556 http://www.uba.uva.nl/apm |
The Allard Pierson Museum is part of the University of Amsterdam complex, and displays exhibits about life in the Ancient World. A variety of different cultures are explored: the museum's Egyptian exhibits represent over 3,500 years of history; in the Middle East Room, they have assembled artifacts from several cultures in the region between Turkey and Iran. The museum's collection is based on sculptures, glassware and drinking vessels from different eras and places such as the Roman, Cypriot and the Greek worlds. If you want to see and experience ancient history, this is an excellent place to go! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jim Forest  |
 Photo: Jim Forest |
 Photo: Tony CH Lee |
 The river after which Amsterdam is named |
Muntplein Amsterdam 1012 WP Netherlands +31 (0)20 201 8800 (Toerist Bureau) |
Amstel is the river from which Amsterdam took its name. It became the heart of the city after the river was dammed. From the south the river runs into town up to the town hall, near Waterloo and Munt squares. Then it branches off into several different streams throughout the city canals. At night, the river banks of the Amstel are a delightful place to enjoy the city lights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: gezonkenbootje |
 Photo: Ivo van Doesburg |
 Photo: Gabrielle Marks |
 Photo: Karl O'Brien |
 Photo: Ini Kim |
 Photo: Leo |
 Photo: Hans van der Kruijf |
 Photo: Edwin Wisse |
 Photo: Thomas Kalkbrenner |
 Photo: Chris Nixon |
 Photo: Martina (Tina) |
 Photo: Feije Riemersma |
 Photo: Cees Wouda |
 Photo: Joren Frielink |
 Photo: Paul Stringer |
 Photo: Boris van Hoytema |
 Photo: transportfiets.net |
 Photo: *Müsli |
 Photo: Bert Lubbers |
 Photo: Jeroen |
 Photo: sindala |
 Photo: jocelyn.aubert |
 Photo: Neil Gouw |
 Photo: ~JaG~ |
 Photo: Max Cohen |
 Photo: stogafy |
 Photo: pieter bruin |
 Photo: ramen deuren en kozijnen |
 Photo: basgoodpeople |
 Photo: dede_rom |
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Antique books & prints |
Spui Amsterdam 1012 XA Netherlands +31 (0)20 201 8800 (Tourist Information Centre) |
The inner city of Amsterdam accommodates over one hundred antiquarian and second hand bookstores all within a short distance of each other. A map of the area is available at most of the bookstores. A weekly antiquarian book market has taken place here since 1991. The exact location is Spui Square. Each Friday there are about thirty market stalls in which you'll find modern second-hand books as well as rarer, antiquarian ones. This is a perfect place for collectors. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rob |
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Trip Back Into Time |
Rokin 78 Amsterdam 1012 KW Netherlands +0031 (0)20 5308511 http://www.thedungeons.com/ |
The newest addition to The Dungeons chain, this medieval-based attraction features live entertainment and special effects. In addition to the interactive spectacle, audience members can tour through the dank underbelly on the Dungeon Ride. Amsterdam Dungeon welcomes large groups, corporate dinners and private parties. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dave Aronson |
 Photo: Elli Mayhem |
 Photo: isabel bloedwater |
 Photo: Aaron Zeckoski |
 Photo: Inge Bee |
 Photo: Oguzhan Erim |
 Photo: Dina R |
 Photo: Tony Mitchell |
 Photo: Zaharenia Atzitzikak |
 Photo: Yusi Barclay! |
 Photo: Carlo Agulto |
 Photo: chiara de francisci |
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The History of the Capital |
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 357 Amsterdam 1012 RC Netherlands +31 (0)20 523 1822 http://www.ahm.nl |
No less than seven centuries of Amsterdam's history is displayed in this beautiful museum: models, maps, paintings, archaeological findings and other objects trace the growth of Amsterdam from a medieval town to a modern metropolis. You can see medieval shoes and the rainbow colored umbrella of the Gay Games '98. The Civic Guard Gallery is the only public museum street in the world and shows a selection of group portraits of Amsterdam militia groups. The museum is housed in the former public orphanage. You can buy the most beautiful souvenirs in the Amsterdam Gift Shop, there is a library and in the restaurant you can get a drink and have something to eat. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Darren Bown |
 Photo: Pavlin Samo |
 Photo: kainmarko |
 Photo: iraspberry |
 Photo: Tery D |
 Photo: frank kirk |
 Photo: David H. Altmayer |
 Photo: Becky Houtman |
 Photo: Amanda Benzine |
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Art Exhibitions |
Rokin 112 Amsterdam 1012 LB Netherlands +31 (0)20 623 3508 http://www.arti.nl |
The Maatschappij Arti et Amicitiae (Society Arti et Amicitiae), born in 1839, was the first organization of visual artists in The Netherlands and now counts about 480 artists among its members and about 1100 people as friends and patrons. Every year, around 10 exhibitions are organized in which work by national as well as international art is shown. The building alone is also more than worth a visit, with the four bronze sculptures at the front (neo-classicist, designed in 1854 by Leliman) representing the Muses and the beautiful 19th century staircase, designed by H.P. Berlage. See website for exhibition calendar, membership info and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Unique Big City Silence |
Begijnhof 30 (chapel) Amsterdam 1012 WT Netherlands +31 20 622 1918 http://www.begijnhofamsterdam.nl |
The Beguinage lies hidden away from the noisy shopping street Kalverstraat, next to the History Museum. Most of the houses in the area were built in the 17th century; the oldest house in Amsterdam made of wood, dating from 1475, is also here. Wooden houses slowly disappeared because the city forbade their construction in order to prevent fire in the densely populated inner city. The courtyards were created by small religious communities in an attempt to retreat from the world and live their own isolated and devoted lives. The Begijnen - a Catholic order - was only tolerated after the Reformation in the 16th century. Only single women are allowed in the Begijnhof to lead the life of a nun. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ©appaIoosa |
 Photo: ©appaIoosa |
 Photo: Jan v.d. Brink |
 Photo: Jan v.d. Brink |
 Photo: Simon Bridge |
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Architecture, Exhibitions & Concerts |
Damrak 277 Amsterdam 1012 ZJ Netherlands +31 (0)20 530 4141 http://www.beursvanberlage.nl/ |
H.P. Berlage (1856-1934), one of the most famous Dutch architects, built the Amsterdam Stock Exchange (nowadays called Beurs van Berlage) at the Damrak, near Centraal Station over a 5-year period (1898-1903). Berlage's intention was to produce a socialist building, in which all kinds of craftsmanship would come together to support the rise of the proletarian movements at the end of the 1800s in an architectural form. He is considered a forerunner of the Dutch architectural style, De Amsterdamse School (The Amsterdam School). The building isn't used as a Stock Exchange anymore; instead, all kinds of different exhibitions and concerts take place here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chana de Wolf |
 Photo: Jona A. Andersen |
 Photo: Chana de Wolf |
 Photo: Dave Yang |
 Photo: Poekie Adda |
 Photo: Christa |
 Photo: Ronald Carpentier |
 Photo: Lennaert Kapiteyn |
 Photo: Patrick |
 Photo: Sam Gelfand |
 Photo: MarkJW |
 Photo: Cédric Allier |
![Beurs van Berlage photo by ]V[orlock](pictures/23946_12.jpg) Photo: ]V[orlock |
 Photo: Martin Wedel |
 Photo: Nienke Bothoff |
 A museum dedicated to the Bible |
Herengracht 368 Amsterdam 1016 Netherlands +31 (0)20 624 2436 http://www.bijbelsmuseum.nl |
The Amsterdam Biblical Museum is situated in two buildings on a canal dating from 1662. Both houses were built by the Dutch architect Philips Vingboons for the Amsterdam merchant Jacob Cromhout. The museum was founded in 1851 by Leendert Schouten, who gave the public the opportunity to admire his collection, which still forms the heart of the museum. Naturally, the theme of the museum is The Book itself. Among the Bibles on display are the first printed Bible in the Netherlands and the 'Statenvertaling', which dates from 1637 (the first edition of the authorized Dutch translation). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Martin Hagen |
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University chapel and museum |
Oudezijds Voorburgwal 231 Amsterdam 1012 EZ Netherlands +31 (0)20 525 3339 |
The Agnietenkapel (the Chapel of Holy Agnes) is the only medieval chapel in good condition in Amsterdam. It was built in 1397 and rebuilt after a fire in 1470. From the foundation of the Athenaeum Illustre - precursor of the University of Amsterdam—by Vossius and Barlaeus in 1632 the Agnietenkapel was the centre of scientific activities. It is now the University's history museum. Portraits of scholars and other famous men are located in the oldest lecture hall in their original settings. The series of portraits was a gift from the local merchant collector Gerardus van Papenbroeck in 1743. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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War Memorial |
In Old City Amsterdam 1012 JS Netherlands +31 (0)20 201 8800 (Tourist Information Centre) |
In the 13th Century the river Amstel was dammed here and on the banks of the river a small fishing community was founded, called Amstelredam. Boats could unload their freight here and alongside the Damrak. When the Nieuwe Kerk was rebuilt and the Royal Palace (originally the town hall) built, the enclosed square served as the city centre, both socially and for administrative purposes. The city was governed and law and order maintained from here, as can be seen in pictures of public executions on a scaffold in front of the town hall. After WWII, the War Memorial was erected on another square on the Dam, which is now a gathering place for thousands of people and numerous pigeons. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bertoz |
 Photo: Heather Masterson |
 Photo: Sander van Amerongen |
 Photo: Kevin Ready |
 Photo: Photos in the Sunset |
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Pussycats Afloat |
Singel 38 G Amsterdam, NH 1015 AB Netherlands +31 20 508 5515 http://www.poezenboot.nl/ |
Back in the sixties, one sweet lady took in a stray cat and her kittens. Her house soon became too small for all the cats that followed and she moved to a houseboat in one of Amsterdam's lively canals. Even though cats hate water, they flourished in their new home and it since became a cat shelter where cats can go their own way, are not confined to cages and walk around like little captains. It is a unique and remarkable place. Two hours a day tourists are very welcome to come aboard and see this amazing shelter for themselves. -Sandy Hayes Review © 2007, Wcities |
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In the middle of stylish Kalverstraat |
Kalverstraat 58 Amsterdam 1012 PG Netherlands +31 (0)20 623 1889 http://www.amsterdamtourist.nl... |
De Papegaai (or Jozefkerk) is hidden away in the stylish Kalverstraat shopping street. The church was designed by architect G. Moele in 1848. The Papegaai (parrot) was a code name for the secret church located in the houses behind the Kalverstraat during the Reformation. The church has a complete neo-Gothic interior and style. The eponymous parrot is carved out of stone in the tiny neo-Gothic doorway on the Kalverstraat side. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Felipe Castro |
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An Amsterdam Essential |
148 Oudezijds Achterburgwal Amsterdam, NH 1012 Netherlands +31 20 623 5961 http://www.hashmuseum.com/ |
The Hash Marihuana Hemp Museum in Amsterdam was opened in 1985. Since then, it has drawn almost one million visitors from around the world. It is located in the heart of the infamous Red-Light District. The exhibits are completely dedicated to the cannabis plant and its diverse uses and fascinating history. Whether you are a smoker or not, a visit here will be insightful and enriching. Admission is EUR 5.70, Groups, 10 persons or more EUR 3,85. Free admission for children under 13 yrs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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15th Century House |
Begijnhof 34 Amsterdam 1012 WV Netherlands +31 (0)20 551 2512 (Tourist Information) |
Often referred to as 'The Wooden House' in English, this historic structure replaced its smaller, former design in the 15th century. These wooden houses sprung up all around Amsterdam starting in the mid-1400s featuring an additional storey to their predecessor. All wooden buildings were banned in 1521 because they posed a huge fire risk, but this original design has since become christened into classic Amsterdam Architecture. The building is one of only two historic wooden houses left in the city and is the oldest wooden house in Amsterdam dating from 1470. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kathleen Verhetsel |
 Photo: Massimo Oliva |
 Photo: Ellie |
 Photo: p_papakonstantinou |
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Chic boutiques |
Leidsestraat 32 Amsterdam 1001 NA Netherlands +31 (0)20 551 2512 (Tourist Information) |
These two streets used to be home to a large variety of upscale boutiques. Though most have uprooted and moved a little further south, these streets are still teeming with a host of shops, boutiques, sandwich joints and more. The stores here in general offer mid-range, affordable clothes and accessories. Kenneth Cole can be found, as well as Belgian designer Cora Kemperman, known for her innovatively cut and richly coloured garments. Sprinkled on and around these streets are wonderful little eateries, great for a quick bite and a refreshing drink. Pound these pavements, and you won't walk away empty-handed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rick van Hemert |
 Photo: Sophie |
 Photo: Joshua Jabbour |
 Photo: Ton Wegman |
 Photo: neajjean |
 Photo: Bianca Dortas |
 Photo: syaniger |
 Photo: daaynos |
 Photo: Kenneth Baruch |
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Former City Hall, now the Royal Palace |
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 147 Amsterdam 1012 RJ Netherlands +31 (0)20 320 4060 http://www.koninklijkhuis.nl/e... |
In the mid-17th Century the painter Jacob van Campen was given the assignment to design a new town hall. The city council wanted a grand symbol for their leading role in Europe at that time - Holland's Golden Age, as well as economic and civic power. The building had to make this clear for everyone to see. The town hall became the biggest in Europe. In 1808 the building was 'transformed' into a Royal Palace by the brother of Napoleon Bonaparte, Louis, king of the region during the French occupation. Nowadays, it is still a royal residence. The Dutch royal family, the Oranje-Nassau's, receive royalty and dignitaries at the palace. The new king or queen also present themselves to the citizens of the Netherlands from the balcony of the palace. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Diego Ortiz |
 Photo: Robin Lambeek |
 Photo: Chris Matias |
 Photo: Dave Price |
 Photo: goodness graci0us |
 Photo: Jill Woodward |
 Photo: Jessica Pfisterer |
 Photo: helena |
 Photo: Vanessa Michele |
 Photo: Rachel Sershon |
 Photo: Joshua Arcurio |
 Photo: flo21 |
 Photo: Chris Creel |
 Photo: Eric Shieh |
 Photo: Max Kueng |
 Photo: Peter Layshock |
 Photo: James Ash |
 Photo: Jana Kocurková |
 Photo: shirasagi_suguru |
 Photo: Tom Giger |
 Photo: Lilly Heong |
 Photo: Julio H-R |
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Wax Figures |
Dam Square 20 Amsterdam 1012 NP Netherlands +31 (0)20 523 0623 / +31 (0)20 522 1010 http://www.madame-tussauds.nl |
Madame Tussaud Scenerama is housed in a very large building in the centre of Amsterdam. It is spread over four floors. An entire section is devoted to Dutch history, and more specifically, the history of Amsterdam. Many European celebrities, sports figures, artists and royalty are present to greet guests (in wax at least). There is a section with contemporary Hollywood stars and another devoted to famous historical figures such as Gandhi and Einstein. Those who fancy standing hand in hand or cheek-to-cheek with your favourite movie star, politician or sport star, this is the place for you. A camera is useful—this is a once in a lifetime encounter. See website for online galleries, webcams, extended summer hours, locations worldwide and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dave Mitchell |
 Photo: Vina the Great |
 Photo: anj4u |
 Photo: David Nagy |
 Photo: HMZ Digital Studio |
 Photo: Jan Klocksien |
 Photo: wonker |
 Photo: Mickael Maison |
 Photo: mobile_gwenster |
 Photo: David Nagy |
 Photo: Rachel Elizabeth Sitanala |
 Photo: mongky82 |
 Photo: Peter Neumann |
 Photo: Super-Toad |
 Photo: Areza |
 Photo: Roi Caspy |
 Photo: vansassa |
 Photo: Security Guy |
 Photo: Matt Plummer |
 Photo: Vivian |
 Photo: Claudio Pisciottano |
 Photo: Yannick Belanger |
 Photo: jUST-Y |
 Photo: fritzlandia |
 Photo: Riza Perlas |
 Photo: Alana Prates |
 Photo: sarars128 |
 Photo: Ergin Kurtulmus |
 Photo: Bruno Grimaldi |
 Photo: Sam Clue |
 Photo: di4blo |
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Holland's greatest writer |
Korsjespoortsteeg 20 Amsterdam 1015 AR Netherlands +31 20 638 1938 http://www.multatuli-museum.nl/ |
Multatuli means I suffered a lot. It is a pseudonym for the Dutch writer Eduard Douwes Dekker, who was around more than a century ago. His work has a great impact even today, as a result of his most famous book Max Havelaar - one of the most important classics in the history of Dutch literature. This museum houses all of his works and some of his personal belongings (his sofa, for example). Go back in time with Multatuli! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Samuel Barnett |
 Photo: Fiona Hanrahan |
 Photo: Dave Wiseman |
 Photo: Anton Hazewinkel |
 Photo: Andy Kaye |
 Photo: Ramon Wouters |
 Photo: Olaf Koens |
 Photo: Gromit Lad |
 Photo: Miquel Soldevila |
 Photo: manyakrijgsman |
 Photo: Kimiya Jokar |
 Beautiful Tower Near Amstel River |
Muntplein 12 Amsterdam 1012 WR Netherlands +31 (0)20 201 8800 (Tourist information) |
The western corner tower of the former Regulier's Gate was built around 1490. Regulier's Gate was part of the old town rampart. It became obsolete when the city expanded its borders southwards at the end of the sixteenth century. After the great fire of 1618, the lower part was left intact. The city allowed architect Hendrick de Keyser to reconstruct the wooden upper part. The brothers Hemony, famous for their bell-foundry, were commissioned to make the carillon. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: .Heather. |
 Photo: Andrew Lament |
 Photo: Stephan |
 Photo: Guifré Miquel |
 Photo: ngi- |
 Photo: Cesar Reñones Dominguez |
 Photo: daevon29 |
 Photo: Bonnie Dekker |
 Photo: Bianca Barragan |
 Photo: Steve Arnold |
 Photo: Marco Battini |
 Photo: Jim Tebbutt |
 Photo: lkampherbeek |
 Photo: eknutov |
 Photo: Paul Karpenko |
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Thinner inner |
Singel 7 Amsterdam 1012 VC Netherlands +31 (0)20 551 2512 (Tourist Information) |
The Narrowest House in Amsterdam is also one of the narrowest houses in the world. At only one meter wide, this house is just barely wider than the front door. The houses in Amsterdam are built in this narrow fashion because of the soft soil that they are built on. All of the houses are actually leaning on each other to stay upright. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Shari Greenberg |
 Photo: Gary Marriott |
 Photo: camatina27 |
 Photo: Matt Barrett |
 Photo: paola witt |
 Photo: tw7424 |
 Photo: DamonHebert |
 Photo: Jakub Holecek |
 Photo: Jeff and Amy |
 Photo: Meagan Willits |
 Photo: Mark Ou |
 Photo: Anant Narayanan |
 Photo: Amy Swacina |
 Photo: Christine Chang |
 Photo: Gavin Bridge |
 Photo: Melissa Wilson |
 Photo: Jordan Munn |
 Photo: jAYDEIGNAN |
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Remembering WWII |
Gravenstraat Amsterdam 1012 NM Netherlands +31 (0)20 551 2512 (Tourist Information) |
Located at Dam Square, The National Monument was unveiled on on May 4th, 1956 in honor of those who died during World War II. The monument is a 22-meter tall obelisk, with two stone lions standing beneath. Every year on May 4th, you will find a large gathering of dignitaries, as well as many other people, commemorating the victims of the war. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Azlan Nache |
 Photo: Azlan Nache |
 Photo: annet planten |
 Photo: Michael A. Horton |
 Photo: Danny Festa |
 Photo: Oleg Ilyushin |
 Photo: Jeremy Green |
 Photo: Pete Vincenti |
 Photo: Rob van der Vaart |
 Photo: Gene Dawydiak |
 Photo: a.alapage |
 Photo: Allan Clarke |
 Photo: elena gaibar |
 Photo: Victor Caballero |
 Photo: Conor Ritchie |
 Photo: Vijay Basrur |
 Photo: amstersota |
 Photo: Katie Prince |
 Photo: Danny Durkee |
 Photo: jchristjohn |
 Photo: Iris Cimic |
 Photo: ernesthemmings |
 Photo: Flaviana726 |
 Photo: Matthias Wille |
 Photo: ♫ Red Roses In Winter ♫ |
 Photo: SwatiY |
 Photo: Tammy Lynch |
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A den of department stores |
Nieuwendijk and Kalverstraat Amsterdam 1012 Netherlands +31 (0)20 551 2512 (Tourist Information) |
Kalverstraat is a tourist site in itself. You can't imagine all of the stores lining this single street. This is certainly the destination for those looking for the usual high street fare, Tie Rack and Sacha to name a couple. The Kalvertoren, a covered mall located on Kalverstraat—close to the Munt—is also brimming with general commercial shops, as well as delightful little coffee shops and great places to grab a quick, rejuvenating lunch. For a truly outstanding bite to eat, hop over to Vroom and Dreesman. The store itself offers nothing remarkably unique, but the restaurant is worth the visit alone. From the Dutch chain HEMA to the enigmatically named Ron's Exclusive, these streets offer a little something for every wallet. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Build by Adriaan Dortsman |
Singel 411 Amsterdam 1012 Netherlands +31 (0)20 642 2373 http://www.elgadam.nl/oudeluth... |
This round church, which has a dome and an ambulatory along half of its circumference, was burnt to the ground in 1822 in a fire caused by careless plumbers. It was rebuilt in 1823 by T.F. Suys and J. de Greef who gave it a coffered vault instead of the former smooth vault with ribs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Hecht |
 Photo: Charlie Mulholland |
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Preserved history |
Nwz Voorburgwal 147 Amsterdam 1012 RJ Netherlands +31 (0)20 624 8698 http://www.koninklijkhuis.nl/e... |
Built as the new city hall of Amsterdam in the 17th Century, this building was converted into the Royal Palace when King Louis Napoleon (1808-1873) came to Amsterdam. Today, the Palace is still used by the Queen for meetings and other official functions. When dignitaries are not occupying the building, tours are available. The furnishings are mostly from the period it was built, boasting impressive chandeliers, paintings, and sculptures. The palace is currently closed for renovations and will be re-opening in 2008. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: D.Jimeno |
 Photo: William Leiwakabessy |
 Photo: Ben Kallman |
 Photo: D.Jimeno |
 Photo: Tim Gordon |
 Photo: Daniel Larrinaga |
 Photo: La Sequencia |
 Photo: Mike Hales |
 Photo: aneez ahmed |
 Photo: Mike Paradis |
 Photo: Nathan Colquhoun |
 Photo: plaatjesch |
 Photo: Rob and Joyce Hansse |
 Photo: Ryan G. Nelson |
 Photo: 3x0=3 |
 Photo: Van Bockel |
 Photo: Rose Wahlin |
 Photo: grandvalleygomer |
 Photo: Razvan Bardan |
 Photo: Pétur M. Egilsson |
 Photo: boyjake333 |
 Photo: abigail chen |
 Photo: jignashu_parikh |
 Photo: ANDREA RIBEIRO Fotog |
 Photo: (•-•_pakitroki_•-•) |
 Photo: Richard Norman |
 Photo: cagutzwiller |
 Photo: Inga Bebris |
 Photo: Ted Goodman |
 Photo: Lex Mortis |
 Photo: ndasilva33 |
 Photo: Miami Love 1 |
 Photo: Tracey Annison |
 Photo: Siggi S. |
 Photo: Mark D Parris |
 Photo: Montse Vilà |
 Photo: Erin |
 Photo: abd_mudjib |
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Church in the Begijnhof |
Begijnhof 48 Amsterdam 1012 WV Netherlands +31 20 624 9665 http://www.ercadam.nl/ |
Amsterdam has many courtyards, but there is only one in the old city centre - the Begijnhof. This is not an ordinary courtyard, but more like a monastery. The Begijnhof was the only Catholic institution that still in existence after the Alteration in 1578. In 1607 the chapel had to be given to the English Presbyterians. From that moment on, the church on the Begijnhof has been called the English Reformed Church. During the city fires of 1421 and 1452 the church suffered severe damage. It developed from a one to two-aisled hall in 1650. The chapel was completely renovated in 1912 and 1967. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Winston Su |
 Photo: Thomas Harley |
 Photo: Thomas Harley |
 Photo: Mark Wesley |
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Famous for spectacular exhibitions |
Dam Square Amsterdam 1012 NL Netherlands +31 (0)20 638 6909 http://www.nieuwekerk.nl |
The Nieuwe Kerk is a 15th-century building, partly destroyed and rebuilt again after several fires. Vying for importance with the Town Hall & Royal Palace, the House of the Lord lost out in its rivalry with the Town Hall because it was denied a tower by the city's magistrate. Ceremonies for abdication and succession to the throne are held here. The queens of the Netherlands - Wilhelmina (1898), Juliana (1948) and Beatrix (1980), the present queen, have all been crowned in the here. Naval officer and conqueror of the Spanish Armada in the 17th century, Michiel de Ruyter, is buried here. It is used for exhibitions at present. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: D.Jimeno |
 Photo: Ard Hesselink |
 Photo: Erik Bremer |
 Photo: Heather Brossard Zins |
 Photo: Tara |
 Photo: Rob |
 Photo: geohoo |
 Photo: Marc Dobson |
 Photo: Chathura Manawadu |
 Photo: msoques |
 Photo: Adam Hanks |
 Photo: zephyrous |
 Photo: keescomm |
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Former monastery chapel |
Walenpleintje 159 Amsterdam 1012 JZ Netherlands +31 20 623 2074 http://www.waalsekerk-amsterda... |
The Waalse Kerk used to be the chapel of the monastery of the brothers of Paul, founded in 1409. The chapel was inaugurated in 1496. The Walloon Reformed community was permitted to organise French-speaking services in the chapel in 1586. From that moment on, the chapel was renamed Walenkerck, or Waalse Kerk (Walloon Church). Nowadays, the Waalse Kerk is a three-aisled church, covered with timber barrel vaults. The aisles are in a traditional neo-Gothic style. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |