Amsterdamwas founded in the 12th century as a small fishing village and is now the largest and most populous city in the Netherlands and a cultural and financial centre of international importance.
Amsterdam's historic city centre was largely built during the 17th century and is now one of the largest on the European continent. It is from this period that Amsterdam's famous canals date, which is why it is colloquially known as the 'Venice of the North'. Within Amsterdam's Old Town is Dam Square, the true heart of the city, and one of the most visited places by the large number of tourists that the Dutch city receives throughout the year.
Amsterdam's Dam Square is always lively. You can enjoy its spectacular buildings and monuments while having a snack or a good beer on one of its many terraces. It is also the starting point of the Kalverstraat, where you can go shopping in the numerous and varied shops.
Other cultural attractions of Dam Square are, for example, the carnival, which is held there in spring, and the street art (mimes, painters, musicians...), which fills it with colour during the summer months.
Here is a small guide to the most emblematic sights of Dam Square.
The Royal Palace of Amsterdam
The Koninklijk Palace is one of the four palaces at the disposal of the Dutch king. Built in the 17th century in a classicist style, it is located next to the Nieuwe Kerkand opposite the National Monument. You can visit the interior of the palace daily from 12:00 to 17:00 for 10 euros.
The National Monument
The obelisk on Dam Square is a monument erected in memory of the Dutch resistance fighters and soldiers who gave their lives fighting the Nazis during World War II. The 22-metre-high sculpture was unveiled in 1956, and since then it has been a popular place for tourists and locals to sit and gaze out over Dam Square.
Nieuwe Kerk
The New Church was built in the 15th century by the order of the Bishop of Utrecht. Guided tours of the interior are free of charge. The church is now a multifunctional space, hosting numerous events, conferences, concerts and exhibitions while retaining its religious use for rare occasions, such as the wedding of Prince Willem-Alexander in 2002.
Former Stock Exchange Building
The Beurs Van Berlage is now used as an exhibition and concert hall. It is dominated by the tall clock tower, with its ceramic friezes and glass and iron roof. Its solid red brick façade gives it a very austere appearance.
Madame Tussauds
This world-famous wax museum is one of the most fun places to visit in Dam Square and all of Amsterdam. It's more like atheme park than a museum, featuring performances by actors and interactive rooms. The wax figures represent the most famous personalities from the world of politics, science, sport, music, and cinema.
Amsterdam's Dam Square is the best place to start getting to know this Venice of the North, before visiting other emblematic points of the city such as the canals, the Flower Market, the Van Gogh Museum, or the Red Light District.
