Dam area in Amsterdam. Dam Square, Amsterdam: photos, review, how to get there

Historical information

The square is located on a dam built on the Amstel River in the 13th century, which is why the attraction received its name. This structure provided transport links between settlements on different banks. The dam was constantly being completed, and the city gradually blossomed around it.

Over time, the square turned into a commercial center settlement. In the place where goods brought on ships were unloaded, a large fish market opened. In the 19th century, Napoleon Bonaparte ordered its liquidation. At the same time, the mouth of the Amstel River was filled in, as a result of which Dam Square was cut off from the water. In 1837, a stock exchange was organized here, which functioned until the beginning of the last century. A luxury department store, Benkorf, opened in its place. At the dawn of the 20th century, Dam Square gained fame among the entire population of the Netherlands. Mass meetings of national importance began to be organized here.

Popular attractions

Built on the western side of the square Royal Palace– a historical building in the neoclassical style. From the 17th to the 19th centuries there was a town hall here, then the residence of the ruling dynasty began to be located here. On at the moment The palace was placed at the disposal of King Willem-Alexander. In 2009, the building was reconstructed. Now every tourist has the opportunity to explore the palace during the departure of the royal family.

Near the king's residence is the Gothic building of the New Church, erected in the 15th century. The structure was built as an alternative to the Old Church, which could not accommodate all the parishioners. Since 1979, no services have been held here, but exhibitions of various artists and organ concerts have been held.

There is also a Museum nearby wax figures Madame Tussauds. Its visitors have the opportunity to get acquainted with Dutch political and cultural life - there are copies of many famous people states and show business stars.

Opposite is the National Monument, designed by architect Jacobus Oud in 1956 in memory of Dutch soldiers during World War II. It is the site of an annual ceremony - Remembrance Day - dedicated to the people of the country who fell victims of hostilities. It is worth noting that Dam Square itself became the site of a wartime tragedy. On May 7, 1945, after the surrender of Germany, the city center was filled with joyful residents preparing to greet the liberators. The fun of those present was interrupted by machine gun fire. The Germans installed small arms on the balcony of one of the buildings and began to mercilessly destroy civilians. According to sources, 22 people were killed and 120 were seriously injured.

Tourist information

Walking distance from the central railway station Amsterdam to Dam Square takes no more than 10 minutes. Most excursion sightseeing programs around the city start from here. Their cost varies from 30 to 70 euros depending on the number of sites visited. The Krasnapolsky Hotel is located here - you can stay there during your stay in the Netherlands. To save money cash, experienced tourists recommend choosing hotels remote from the center. Dam Square has large number cozy cafes where you can relax after a long excursion. In a variety of shops you can buy interesting souvenirs for family and friends. The Benkorf department store is an ideal place for avid shopaholics.

Dam Square (Amsterdam, Netherlands) - description, history, location, reviews, photos and videos.

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From school, everyone knows perfectly well that the Netherlands is a country located below sea level. Which, due to some amazing circumstances, not only did not get bogged down in the abyss, but, on the contrary, feels quite great. Likewise, the main square of probably one of the most cheerful old towns in Europe is inextricably linked with the water element - after all, it is nothing more than an overgrown dam. This is very difficult to believe, looking at the majestic Gothic cathedral, neoclassical palace and other architectural delights of Dam Square, but this is exactly the case. The history of the square is interesting and surprising, as is everything connected with the history of the Dutch land, which is literally and figuratively unsinkable.

The word “dam” translated into Russian means “dam”.

An impressive dam appeared in this place on the Amstel River at the end of 1270 and connected settlements located on opposite banks. Year after year, the dam was strengthened, and eventually turned into a fairly spacious square, which became the heart of Amsterdam. As trading and fishing vessels moored here, the Dam became the commercial center of the city, and the fame of the famous fish market spread far beyond the borders of the lower lands.

Time passed, and the appearance of the main square changed. Thus, during the Napoleonic Wars, the local Chamber of Weights and Measures was demolished, as it prevented Louis Bonaparte, who had settled in the Royal Palace, from enjoying the panorama of the city. In the 20th century, the building of the Old Socher Exchange was demolished, and in its place today is the department store De Bijenkorf.

Dam Square

Dam Square, as befits the center of an ancient European city, is rich in attractions. Many of them were associated with a variety of historical events. For example, one of the main architectural dominants of the square - the Gothic Nieuwekerk Church - was built at the turn of the 14th and 15th centuries. Within its ancient walls many famous Dutchmen rest and representatives of royal families are crowned to power.

In the western part of the square is the Royal Palace, made in a neoclassical style, next to it is the Nieuwekerk church of the 15th century and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum.

The former town hall, which later became the Royal Palace, also attracts attention. It is slightly younger in age, which, however, does not in any way detract from its architectural merits. The building was built in the 17th century and served as the center of the city administration, and in 1808 a new tenant arrived here - Louis Bonaparte. There is also a completely modern monument here - the National Monument, erected in the 50s. last century in memory of the victims of the Second World War.

Practical information

Address: Amsterdam, Dam Square. The nearest stop is called Dam.

Traditionally, on Saturdays, we publish for you the answers to the quiz in the “Question - Answer” format. We have a variety of questions, both simple and quite complex. The quiz is very interesting and quite popular, we are simply helping you test your knowledge and make sure that you have chosen the correct answer out of the four proposed. And we have another question in the quiz - What is the name of the central square of Amsterdam, where the Royal Palace is located?

• A. Amsterdam
• B. Dame
• C. Nieder
• D. Land

The correct answer is B. DAM

Dam Square (Dutch de Dam) is the central square of Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, where famous buildings and numerous events are located, making it one of the most famous and important places in the city.

The name of the square, like the entire city, is associated with a dam that was built on the Amstel River in the 13th century. The dam was gradually strengthened and eventually became wide enough for the emergence of a city square, which later became the center of the city formed around it. Dam Square was formed from two squares - Middeldam and Platse. Gradually the area became the center of commercial and political life.

If you follow the crowd of non-Dutch speakers, you'll end up on Damrak, a wide boulevard lined with souvenir shops that ends at the central Dam Square. This route can be called traditional for the many tourists who come to the city and is an ideal introductory walk to the sights of the city.

By the way, Dam Square is not named after lovely women, everything is much more prosaic... “dam”, translated from Dutch, means “dam”. So, what is remarkable about this place? In addition to the fact that the square is the heart of the Dutch capital, it houses five attractions of the Dutch capital.

The obelisk, rising on the eastern half of Dam Square, is the main monument built as a tribute to the victims of the Second World War. The monumental sculptures and bas-reliefs on the obelisk symbolically depict the suffering and pain of wartime. The national monument serves as the site of an annual ceremony dedicated to residents who died as victims of the war, which takes place on May 4.

Royal Palace.

One of the three palaces in, at the disposal of the ruling. The building, built in the 17th century, served as the city hall, and in 1813 it became the property of the King of the Netherlands. The palace is located on the western side of Dam Square and is currently used both for state visits and official receptions, as well as for royal weddings and the transfer of the throne. In June 2009, after significant reconstruction, the palace opened its doors to the general public and anyone can view it if the palace is not in use at the time royal family.

New church.

Next to it is a beautiful 15th century church, made in the Gothic style. The New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) was built as an alternative to the overcrowded Old Church (Oude Kerk), which could no longer accommodate everyone. Since 1979, the church has not been used for services because another reconstruction turned out to be beyond the means of the Dutch Reformed Church. Today, the New Church is a popular venue for art exhibitions and organ concerts.

Madame Tussauds Museum.

They have their own, which is located opposite, and from the windows of the top floor of the museum there is a magnificent view of Amsterdam Square. Visitors to the museum have an incredibly easy and fun way to get acquainted with Dutch culture: the museum features figures of famous people of the country, such as Prime Minister Jan Balkenende, and, of course, world celebrities.

Store “De Bijenkorf”

“De Bijenkorf”, translated from Dutch as “the beehive”, is a luxury store in . Founded in 1870, it has grown from a modest shop on a narrow street to its current monumental home at the intersection of Damrak Street and Dam Square, as well as a dozen stores throughout the country. “De Bijenkorf” is an ideal place for avid shopaholics.

Here it is, Dam Square - the very heart of Amsterdam

Dam Square is one of the most important and famous places in Amsterdam and hosts numerous cultural events. It has a vague rectangular shape, extending about 100 meters from north to south and about 200 meters from west to east. The square connects Rokin and Damrak streets, which run along the Amstel River bed - from the railway station to Monetnaya Square. Northeast of Dam Square is the Red Light District. In its western part is the neoclassical Royal Palace, which served as the city hall from 1655 to 1808, and then was converted into a royal residence.

One of the main attractions of the square is the National Monument - a memorial in memory of the people who died during the Second World War. Every year on May 4, a national ceremony is held at this monument to commemorate the victims of conflicts. The author of this unique monument is Jacobus Oud, a great Dutch architect. The central element of the structure is a conical concrete column with a height of 22 meters. On its front side there is a bas-relief of De Vrede, consisting of four chained male figures, which symbolize the suffering of prisoners of war.

Coordinates: 52.37300900,4.89299200

Spey Square

The Spey is a square in the center of Amsterdam.

Initially, this was the name of the river that washed Amsterdam from the south and formed the southern border of the city until 1425.

In 1882 the Spey was filled in and turned into the square we now know. The square underwent reconstruction in 1996 and is now practically free of vehicles.

Spey – real paradise for book lovers, there is a weekly book market here on Fridays, there are also many bookstores, including the academic Athenaeum Bookstore, a children's book store and two English-language literature stores.

Every Sunday an art market is organized here.

There is a statue of Liverdier on the Spey.

Coordinates: 52.36878700,4.89010600

Museum Square

Museum Square is one of the largest and most famous squares in Amsterdam, getting its name due to the fact that it is here that four famous museums are located: Rijksmusem (State art museum Netherlands), Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum (Amsterdam City Museum) and Diamond Museum.

Museum Square was founded at the end of the 19th century on the site where the first International Colonial Exhibition took place in 1883. Those who like to walk among museum exhibits, listen to the fascinating stories of the guides, immerse yourself in the history of the development of the city, its life and culture, you feel great here. Various public events are also held on the square: festivals, holidays, demonstrations, etc.

In 1999, a large-scale reconstruction of the square was carried out. The author of the new project is Swedish landscape architect Sven-Ingvar Anderson. As a result of the transformations, underground parking and a supermarket appeared on the square, and the pond located here turns into an artificial skating rink in winter.

Coordinates: 52.35795700,4.88237600

Rembrandt Square

One of central squares Amsterdam is called Rembrandtplein and is dedicated to the work and Rembrandt van Rijn himself. In the center of the square, on a large lawn, there is a monument to the artist, and at its foot, on fine days, local residents and guests of the city arrange entire picnics and sunbathe.

Rembrandt Square became famous as one of the landmarks when it was erected in 2008 for the 400th anniversary of the artist sculptural composition of 22 bronze figures depicting characters from the painting “Night Watch”. This gift was given to the city by two Russian sculptures and artists, Mikhail Dronov and Alexander Taratynov. A year later, the composition was sent to New York, and a year later it was already in the courtyard of the Museum of Fine Arts. A.S. Pushkin will continue to be exhibited in several more cities around the world.

Rembrandtplein is located in the liveliest part of Amsterdam, with many cozy cafes and shops nearby. At night, many clubs, discos and bars are open here, so life does not subside until the morning.

Coordinates: 52.36611100,4.89666700

Leidseplein area

Leidseplein, located at the southern border of the Grand Canals, is the center of a tourist hotspot, where visitors wander in droves and a buzz of nightlife. Leidseplein is also quite lively during the day, with street performers and musicians performing there. On the square itself and the streets adjacent to it there are many bars, restaurants, street cafes, theaters, and dance clubs.

In general, Leidseplein is a noisy and dusty place, although it is called the most picturesque square in the city. Amsterdam residents themselves try to avoid it. Therefore, the number of tourists here always exceeds the number local residents. And most of the signs and signs here are made in English- to make it easier for foreigners to navigate the variety of bars and restaurants.

Coordinates: 52.36441700,4.88274100

Dam Square

The central square of Amsterdam, where famous buildings are located and numerous events are held. One of the most famous and important places in the city.

The square has the shape of a rectangle, extending approximately 200 meters from west to east and 100 meters from north to south. It connects the Damrak and Rokin streets, running along the direction of the Amstel River from the Central station to the Müntplein and the Münttoren tower.

Here are such famous city attractions as the Royal Palace, the Nivier Kirk, Madame Tussauds, and the national monument (white stone pillar), erected in 1956 in memory of the victims of World War II. Also located on the square are the Grand Hotel Krasnapolski and the prestigious department store De Bijenkorf.

Dam Square has several stops for the tram lines that pass through it. At the end of the 19th century (when the horse tram still existed), Dam Square was the main center of Amsterdam's tram service. After 1900 this function was taken over by Stationsplein.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Amsterdam's main square became a "national" square, known to almost all residents of the Netherlands. Demonstrations and various public events, including many rallies, were often held here.

Coordinates: 52.37275300,4.89230600

Spey Square

Speuy Square is one of the central squares of the capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam. Its shape is quite asymmetrical, since until the end of the 19th century there was a reservoir here that bounded the city in the south.

Spey Square was formed in 1882. With the construction of the new canal, now located in the outer ditch around Amsterdam, the need for a spillway in the south of the city disappeared, and the reservoir was filled in, forming a square in its place. In 1996, Speuy Square was turned into a pedestrian area, and since then, every Friday a book fair and meeting of book lovers from all over Amsterdam have been organized here. At this fair you can often meet antiques dealers. And on Sundays, city artists put up their paintings for sale here.

The square contains many architectural monuments of the city. It is worth noting the ancient Lutheran Church of the 17th century, the House of the Maidens - a former orphanage for girls, and now the University of Amsterdam built in 1780, the Helios house in the art nouveau style of the late 19th century. In the center of the square there is a statue of a teenage boy nicknamed “Cutie” - this is the spirit of the square, symbolizing the resilient people of Amsterdam. There is a beer restaurant on the square where you can taste delicious local beer, as well as imported varieties from other countries.

Coordinates: 52.36861100,4.88944400

Sights of Amsterdam