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 Old secret Catholic church |
Oudezijds Voorburgwal 40 Amsterdam 1012 GE Netherlands +31 20 624 6604 http://www.museumamstelkring.n... info@museumamstelkring.nl |
The Amstelkring Museum, "Our Lord in the Attic," is housed in a 17th-century canal house. On the lower floors there are authentic living rooms that date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Upstairs there is a perfectly preserved Roman Catholic Attic Church, built in 1663. A maze of rooms, halls and staircases with lots of peepholes remind you of Holland's Golden Age. Following the Alteration in 1578 (when Amsterdam became Protestant), Catholics were not permitted to practice their religion in public. Instead, this took place in all sorts of rooms in houses, and later in fully furnished clandestine churches: the conventicles. These were privately owned, and designed not to be recognizable as churches from the outside. The entrance to Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder (Our Lord in the Attic) was in the alley rather than on the more conspicuous canal side. It served as a parish church until 1887. The building now houses a museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rob Bohan |
 Photo: koe2moe |
 Photo: Patella |
 Photo: Ayo Umali  |
 Photo: Anna Tobias |
 Photo: Pieter66 |
 Photo: moava |
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Begijnhof and Begijnhof Chapel |
Begijnhof 30 (chapel) Amsterdam 1012 WT Netherlands +31 20 622 1918 http://www.begijnhofamsterdam.nl info@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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An impressive place to use public transport |
Stationsplein Amsterdam 1012 AB Netherlands +31 (0)20 201 8800 (Tourist Office) |
Amsterdam's Centraal Station dates from the year 1889, when it was first used for the transport of goods. It was designed by the architect P.J.H. Cuypers - well known in his time, who also designed the Rijksmuseum. The building's foundation consists of 8,687 wooden piles, because of the wetlands around 't IJ. The original construction has been rebuilt more than once, due to rapidly expanding traffic and rail transport. The Central Station terminal has recently been restored and can be admired in its original style. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Vicky Borchert |
 Photo: Daan van Exel |
 Photo: Paul B |
 Photo: Wong Yew Fung |
 Photo: Jonathan Long |
 Photo: Tanja van der Lelie |
 Photo: Mieke Kreunen |
 Photo: Jesse Muller |
 Photo: Adrian Sherrill |
 Photo: Patrick van den Hurk |
 Photo: DJ_Scamper |
 Photo: michelmitchell |
 Photo: Nancy Collins |
 Photo: Linda Uruchurtu |
 Photo: gozef |
 Photo: Kristiaan |
 Photo: Kismet Tai |
 Photo: pe7er |
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Historic Gate to the City |
Haarlemmerplein 50 Amsterdam 1013 KH Netherlands +31 (0)20 201 8800 (Tourismus Buro) |
The Haarlemmer Town Gate is the only gate left of old Amsterdam. These old gates used to surround the city. Others built included: Leidsepoort, Muiderpoort and Utrechtsepoort. They functioned as guarded entrances to the city and as exits out of town. The gates led to the cities with which their names matched: The Haarlemmer Gate led to Haarlem and the Leidsepoort to Leiden. Until 1825, Amsterdam was located inside these gates. Following another city expansion, the gates and the town ramparts became useless and were taken down. In 1840, the Haarlemmerpoort was restored in the classical style by architect C. Alewijn. 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 |
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House of heads |
Keizersgracht 123 Amsterdam 1015 CJ Netherlands +31 (0)20 551 2512 (Tourist Information) http://www.bma.amsterdam.nl/ad... |
As legend has it, this mansion, built in 1622, was originally the home of a rich merchant, Nicholaas Sohier, who had a deaf maid. One night six thieves broke into the house, but were all beheaded miraculously by the maid. Nowadays, those heads can still be seen prominently decorating the gable roof, giving the house its famous name. It is privately owned today housing offices and private exhibitions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Historical riding school |
Vondelstraat 140 Amsterdam 1054 GT Netherlands +31 (0)20 618 0942 http://www.dehollandschemanege... info@dehollandschemanege.nl |
Inspired by a Spanish riding school in Vienna, architect A.L. Gendt built these Dutch stables in the late 19th century. Nowadays you can walk right on in and enjoy a coffee or beer at the upstairs café while watching the riding school below. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Norbert Szalai |
 Photo: Norbert Szalai |
 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 |
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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: michaelahorton |
 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 |
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Authentic Piece of Amsterdam |
Nieuwmarkt Amsterdam 1012 CR Netherlands |
Initially a lively fish and cloth market, this square upon which the castle-like De Waag building stands was the holding place for Jews arrested during WWII. In the 1970s, Chinese immigrants created a small Chinatown, and a decade later, locals protested the construction of a subway station here. Now the square is a cool gathering place surrounded by pubs and small restaurants where you can eat well for very little money. A delightful walk along the canals amid some of Amsterdam's oldest houses is highly recommended. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Patella |
 Photo: Rico Tijsen |
 Photo: Caroline van Oosten |
 Photo: siebe |
 Photo: suzanne van tongeren |
 Photo: Alastair Dickson |
 Photo: elektronhjarnan |
 Photo: www.primabeeld.nl |
 Photo: Olivier Bruchez |
 Photo: suzanne van tongeren |
 Photo: ulalume3 |
 Photo: Helena |
 Photo: Duane Moore |
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Smallest Netherlands Island |
Postbus 90 Amsterdam 1398 ZH Netherlands +31 294 262 326 http://www.pampus.nl pampus@pampus.nl |
The island of Pampus was built at the end of 19th Century as part of the line of defense around the city borders-de Stelling van Amsterdam. Soldiers had a harsh time on the island, as the humidity level was high and the average temperature about ten degrees Celsius. The fort on the island never took part in any kind of warfare. The Stelling van Amsterdam became outdated with the development of new military weapons like fighter planes. Pampus hasn't served as fortification since 1933. To visit to Pampus you'll have to go to the castle Muiderslot in Muiden and take the ferry to Pampus. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Remko van Dijk |
 Photo: Roel van der Kraan |
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Holland's most famous museum |
Jan Luijkenstraat 1 Amsterdam 1071 ZD Netherlands +31 (0)20 674 7000 http://www.rijksmuseum.nl/ info@rijksmuseum.nl |
This museum is considered a true national treasure. Its exhibits include paintings from the Netherlands' 17th century Golden Age by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Frans Hals and Jan Steen. Rembrandt's "Night Watch" is the museum's centerpiece. You'll also find works from the Middle Ages and the 18th and 19th centuries, superb collections of silver and delftware ceramics, old doll's houses and fantastic examples of Asian Art. See website for visitor information, event schedule and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Grey |
 Photo: aerosolkid |
 Photo: Mieke Tacken |
 Photo: Emma Line |
 Photo: Peter |
 Photo: Jeroen Mink |
 Photo: Bram Nijmeijer |
 Photo: Robin Coleman |
 Photo: Lachie Cox |
 Photo: Ray VanKleef |
 Photo: Carmen Alonso |
 Photo: Peter |
 Photo: Grant Peter |
 Photo: Nolleke ten Cate |
 Photo: Geraldine Curtis |
 Photo: nat_brat_123 |
 Photo: Rachel Greggs |
 Photo: Cara Gouldey |
 Photo: DANILO BARTOLUCCI |
 Photo: mayonnaiseheaven |
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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 |
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Fantastic historical building |
Prins Hendrikkade 94-95 Amsterdam 1012 AE Netherlands +31 20 428 8291 http://www.schreierstoren.nl info@schreierstoren.nl |
At the head of the Gelderse Kade and alongside the Prins Hendrikkade stands the Schreierstoren. This massive semicircular brick tower is a left-over from the medieval town ramparts. As the story goes, the bargees stood there weeping over their men sailing for the East, hence its name of the Tower of Weeping. A more rational explanation for the tower's name is the appearance of the words 't Scrayhoeck and Scrayhorn in old texts describing the location of the tower, which was almost in the waters of river IJ that always threatened the land. The Schreierstoren now functions as a maritime antiquarian bookshop and a gay bar. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: elusivephoto.com |
 Photo: Brett Morgan |
 Photo: akbar Simonse |
 Photo: Onno Heida |
 Photo: best_destinations |
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In the Jordaan |
Noordermarkt 48 Amsterdam 1015 NA Netherlands +31 20 626 6436 http://www.noorderkerk.org/ pjvisser@solcon.nl |
In 1620 the northern part of the Jordaan welcomed its own church, the Noorderkerk, built in 1620-1623, by Hendrick de Keyser and his son Pieter. During the Renaissance period the centrifugal geometrical concept of the church was the ideal construction. It symbolized humanistic principles, and the architecture matched the Protestant service, in which the pulpit fulfilled a central role. The location, however, is medieval, with houses surrounding it. The church is still in use as a Protestant church. In 1998 drastic renovations were completed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: cloud_less |
 Photo: lauren varner |
 Photo: Ard Hesselink |
 Photo: Jasper ter Schegget |
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Great harbour side building |
Prins Hendrikkade 108-114 Amsterdam 1012 TM Netherlands +31 20 552 4888 (Information) http://www.bmz.amsterdam.nl/ad... bma@dab.amsterdam.nl |
East of Centraal Station is the Scheepvaarthuis (Shipping House), at the Prins Hendrikkade. The building was finished in 1916 by the architect J.M. van der Mey and others. Van der Mey and his co-architects were students of one of the leading Dutch architects, Cuypers (Centraal Station, Rijksmuseum). The Scheepvaarthuis, due to its gry image and pseudo-gothic construction, reminds the passer-by of Gotham, the city of Batman, which was inspired by New York at night. It was originally built for the big shipping companies. These days, the local passenger transport company is in residence. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Neil Bruder |
 Photo: Neil Bruder |
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Amsterdam's Most Famous Church |
Prinsengracht 281 Amsterdam 1016 GW Netherlands +31 20 624 7766 http://www.westerkerk.nl info@westerkerk.nl |
The Netherlands's most renowned church has been the source of inspiration for many musicians. The famous tower was completed in 1638, its bells manufactured by the renowned François Hemony foundry in 1658. Though the Protestant community owned the church, the tower was the property of the local authorities and served as a lookout. This marks the site of Rembrandt's burial, as well as the marriage of Queen Beatrix and Prince Claus. For Anne Frank the ringing of the clock was a beacon of hope during WWII. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Scott Jungling |
 Photo: UncleBucko |
 Photo: Jeannie QQ |
 Photo: inyucho |
 Photo: Satish Jayachandran |
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Heymijn's four sons |
Herengracht 394 Amsterdam 1016 CJ Netherlands +31 (0)20 551 2512 (Tourist Information) http://www.bma.amsterdam.nl/ad... |
This example of 17th century architecture is a textbook lesson in classical styles. Originally a family mansion, De Vier Heemskinderen, is today a must stop for tourists in search of Amsterdam's past. Built around 1671, nature and vegetation are the main theme of this building featuring ornate designs which complement the building. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Modern 18th Century Church |
Vondelstraat 120 Amsterdam 1054 GS Netherlands +31 (0)20 551 2512 (Tourist Information) |
This eighteenth century Catholic church takes its oval shape from the island like setting it lies on in the middle of the street. Originally built by P.J.H. Cuypers, its three towers and 360-degree visibility made it highly regarded. After deteriorating with time, it was sold for NLG 1 and now has a very modern presence with beautiful glass walls. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lennard Pasman |
 Photo: Scott Thistlethwaite |
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Old weighing house |
Nieuwmarkt 4 Amsterdam 1012 CR Netherlands +31 (0)20 557 9898 http://www.waag.org society@waag.org |
The Waag, located on the Nieuwmarkt square, was part of the old town ramparts. It was first named the Gate of St. Anthony, built in 1488, which explains the massive towers and the holes in it. In 1614, the gate was no longer part of the front line of defense and a new, wider rampart was built. It had a new function: a weighing house. This was the place where goods were weighed and the building where taxes were levied. In addition to guilds like the guild of surgeons or the bricklayers' guild, a guild of weighers existed. Currently, De Waag also functions as a media center, and a resource for Amsterdam regarding information on healthcare, education, society, and culture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Felipe Castro |
 Photo: i-globe |
 Photo: Rob Bohan |
 Photo: marion de man |
 Photo: Sonia Hermosín Suero |
 Photo: Bruce Sterling |
 Photo: ComùnicaTI |
 Photo: Ryan Policky |
 Photo: Geraint Johnes |
 Photo: Janelle Ward |
 Photo: Gadi Shimshon |
 Photo: Nicola Eaton |
 Photo: Jim Fruchterman |
 Photo: Gregorio Blanco |
 Photo: fsa99999 |
 Photo: zandrasloan |
 Photo: Artindy |
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Old factory, now a beautiful monument |
Haarlemmerweg 8 Amsterdam 1014 BE Netherlands +31 (0)20 586 0710 http://www.westergasfabriek.nl info@westergasfabriek.nl |
The Westergasfabriek (Western Gas Factory) is a former coal gasification plant. It is located just west of the city near both the railway line and the waterfront. Once natural gas was introduced in the mid-1960s, the plant became functionally obsolete. The Westergas plant closed in 1967. The gasworks site consists of nineteen buildings including an immense gas tank. Thirteen are protected as historic buildings under Dutch law. They were built between 1885 and 1905 in a neo-renaissance style, and thus have historical significance. Despite the residual contamination, the local district council, working with its project team and the community, built new relationships and strategies that helped design a new community park, preserved the historic buildings and established the Westergas as an international cultural venue. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marco Wessel |