Amsterdam Museum, Amsterdam
The Amsterdam Museum, known until 2010 as the Amsterdam Historical Museum, is dedicated to the city's past and present. It opened in 1926 in the Waag, one of Amsterdam's 15th-century city gates. Since 1975, the museum has been located in a former convent that was used from 1581 onwards as Amsterdam's municipal orphanage. The orphanage operated here until 1960.
In the 17th century, the building was extended by the acclaimed Dutch "Golden Age" architects, Hendrick and his son Pieter de Keyser, and then rebuilt by Jacob van Campen, in 1634, imparting it with an eternal classical look.
The museum's exhibits relate to the history of Amsterdam, from the Middle Ages to the present time, delving into various facets of the city's life, including religion, culture, folklore, and even prostitution.
Before you venture in, take a moment to observe the archway at the entrance. Resting atop the slightly slanted arch is the city's coat of arms, featuring a red shield adorned with three Xs and a crown. These X-shaped crosses hold dual significance: they represent the crucifixion of Saint Andrew, the patron saint of fishermen, as well as symbolize the virtues of heroism, determination, and mercy. This symbolism was officially adopted by the queen following the Dutch experience in World War II. Although before that, it is believed to have represented the three major medieval threats: fire, flood, and plague.
Inside, the museum's collection spans three floors and includes paintings, models, archaeological findings, photographs, but also less likely items such as a playable carillon, a Witkar (environment-friendly vehicle from the 1960s), and a replica of Caf茅 't Mandje (a famous pub opened in the Red-light district in 1927, where prostitutes, pimps, seamen, and lesbian women came together).
Many of the original furnishings of the city orphanage are also on display, as are artifacts relating to the Rasp house, the former house of correction in Amsterdam where the prisoners were forced to rasp wood to make sawdust. As of 2011, the museum manages 70,000 objects kept in various buildings and storage areas. Of those, approximately 25,000 have been photographed and are available to the public online.
In the 17th century, the building was extended by the acclaimed Dutch "Golden Age" architects, Hendrick and his son Pieter de Keyser, and then rebuilt by Jacob van Campen, in 1634, imparting it with an eternal classical look.
The museum's exhibits relate to the history of Amsterdam, from the Middle Ages to the present time, delving into various facets of the city's life, including religion, culture, folklore, and even prostitution.
Before you venture in, take a moment to observe the archway at the entrance. Resting atop the slightly slanted arch is the city's coat of arms, featuring a red shield adorned with three Xs and a crown. These X-shaped crosses hold dual significance: they represent the crucifixion of Saint Andrew, the patron saint of fishermen, as well as symbolize the virtues of heroism, determination, and mercy. This symbolism was officially adopted by the queen following the Dutch experience in World War II. Although before that, it is believed to have represented the three major medieval threats: fire, flood, and plague.
Inside, the museum's collection spans three floors and includes paintings, models, archaeological findings, photographs, but also less likely items such as a playable carillon, a Witkar (environment-friendly vehicle from the 1960s), and a replica of Caf茅 't Mandje (a famous pub opened in the Red-light district in 1927, where prostitutes, pimps, seamen, and lesbian women came together).
Many of the original furnishings of the city orphanage are also on display, as are artifacts relating to the Rasp house, the former house of correction in Amsterdam where the prisoners were forced to rasp wood to make sawdust. As of 2011, the museum manages 70,000 objects kept in various buildings and storage areas. Of those, approximately 25,000 have been photographed and are available to the public online.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Amsterdam. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Amsterdam Museum on Map
Sight Name: Amsterdam Museum
Sight Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands (See walking tours in Amsterdam)
Sight Type: Museum/Gallery
Sight Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands (See walking tours in Amsterdam)
Sight Type: Museum/Gallery
Walking Tours in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Create Your Own Walk in Amsterdam
Creating your own self-guided walk in Amsterdam is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Red Light District Walking Tour
For centuries, Amsterdam鈥檚 Red Light District has been a source of endless intrigue. Its heart and the most historic section, De Wallen, is a fascinating blend of medieval charm and modern-day notoriety. Here, you鈥檒l find timeworn canal houses leaning at curious angles, narrow cobblestone alleys lined with old bars, cozy shops, and a sprinkling of late-night establishments. And of course, the... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles
Amsterdam Introduction Walking Tour
The Dutch capital, Amsterdam, some say, 鈥渄ances to its own beat.鈥� Indeed, Amsterdam 鈥� where 鈥渉ipness meets history鈥� 鈥� has a rather unusual life rhythm and style, famously manifested in the air of legalized cannabis, coffee shops, and the Red Light District. In large part, this 鈥渁ir of freedom鈥� attracts annually to the city over five million visitors.
As a small fishing village,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.0 Km or 2.5 Miles
As a small fishing village,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.0 Km or 2.5 Miles
Museum Quarter Walking Tour
The Museum Quarter (Museumkwartier) of Amsterdam gets its name from the major museums located in Museum Square therein, namely: the Rijksmuseum, the Stedelijk Museum and the Van Gogh Museum. In fact, it is the construction of the former that boosted the development of the whole neighborhood. Other than museums, the area is also home to the world-famous IAmsterdam letters, as well as exclusive... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.7 Km or 0.4 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.7 Km or 0.4 Miles
Plantage Walking Tour
Amsterdam's Plantage neighborhood has been throughout the centuries a place of rest and entertainment. Beside its impressive 19th-century architecture, there is the historic Royal Zoo, and close-by is the verdantly exotic Hortus Botanicus. Follow this self-guided walk to explore one of the greenest neighborhoods in Amsterdam 鈥� a lovely place to stroll and laze.
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
Southern Canal Belt Walking Tour
The Canal District, known as Grachtengordel in Dutch, is a globally renowned example of urban planning and architectural excellence within Amsterdam. This area has remained remarkably well-preserved for over four centuries, celebrated for its charming small bridges, canal crossings, and 17th-century residences. Encircling the Old City Centre in a horseshoe shape, the Canal Ring encompasses three... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
City Center Walking Tour
The inner-most borough and historic heart of Amsterdam, known locally as Centrum, is a tightly woven network of canals and overlapping micro-neighborhoods, each bursting with their own unique vibe and history. Formerly a working-class area, this district is reputed for its traditional community spirit, radical politics and historic brown bars.
Here, all within an easy walking distance you will... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Here, all within an easy walking distance you will... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip
Top 7 Dutch Cheeses to Try in Amsterdam
Don't mind things turning a bit "cheesy" when in Holland. After all, this small country is renowned for its cheese manufacturing and successfully competes, in terms of cheese exports, with such economic giants as the United States and Germany. Amsterdam alone and its vicinities are...
The Oldest and Historic Pubs of Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a stunningly beautiful city, steeped in history, with hidden treasures and fascinating tales practically around every corner. Like all marvelous cities, Amsterdam has its share of dining and drinking establishments from the modern to the ancient. This guide will assist you in exploring...
12 Traditional Dutch Foods You Must Try in Amsterdam
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Bars of De Pijp, Amsterdam
Sitting to the south of the Centrum (city centre) De Pijp area of Amsterdam is a fascinating mixture of trendy urbanites, students, immigrants and Amsterdammers. De Pijp has a long history as the Bohemian part of town, which is reflected in the different caf茅s of the area. There truly is something...
Dutch Sweets and Pastries
Known primarily for their cheeses, the Dutch have proven just as passionate about their sweets and pastries, many of which have come about as a result of the centuries of colonial past that had infused Holland with Oriental flavors and ingredients. Blended with their own dairy-rich European...
Souvenir Shopping in Amsterdam: 20 Dutch Things To Buy
Tulips, red lights, weed... Other than these, there are plenty of good things to remember Amsterdam by. What's more, you can take home some of them quite legally. Look here to see what to buy in Amsterdam and...