No great European city could be complete without a great central square, the one that is the heart of the place, and is also the center of its economic and social life. In the case of Amsterdam, that is Dam Square, the most important in the whole city.
The history of Dam Square is as old as the city itself. Since its inception, the Netherlands has waged a tireless fight against water. Being below sea level, dams and canals are essential to prevent different areas of the country from sinking.
Amsterdam is no exception, and it is that in the place where Dam Square is today, the first dam was built that allowed the city to unite, and facilitate trade among its inhabitants.
The name of Amsterdam comes from this very fact. Since in Dutch, the word Dam means dam, while the Amstel river was the one that had to be contained to create this city. Thanks to this union, Amsterdam was born.
Over the years, the population grew and the constructions increased, however, the central point of the city continued to be Dam Square. For this reason, the square is not only a space for urban decoration, but represents the centuries and centuries of history of its citizens.
Today, Dam Square continues to be the most important landmark in Amsterdam, and is one of the must-sees of this Dutch metropolis.
Dam Square has a rectangular shape, is bordered by various buildings and one of its sides faces a street, which is its main access route by public transport, car or bicycle.
Right in the center of Dam Square, the National Monument rises, this is a large obelisk, which was created to honor the Dutch soldiers who perished during Nazi Germany’s invasion of the country. Equally, it serves as a reminder of all the other wars in which the Netherlands played a significant role.
In addition, it is necessary to mention its buildings. These have great political and symbolic importance, since one of them is nothing more and nothing less than the Royal Palace, which previously also hosted the City Council.
As for the others, one is the main building of a famous wax museum, known as Madame Tassauds. The other belongs to one of the most notorious churches in Amsterdam, the Nieuwe Kerk.
Similarly, in its vicinity there are many shops, restaurants and cafes, ideal to have a drink and rest.
This square is a public place, so it is open every day of the year, at all hours and admission is free.
It is also a very popular cultural point, and the vast majority of events, celebrations, festivals and exhibitions that take place in Amsterdam are usually held there.
Remember that Dam Square is an extremely central area, and its location is ideal for reaching other must-see attractions in the city, such as The Historical Museum of Amsterdam and the Red Light District.
Do you already know where to start your tour of Amsterdam? Of course! In Dam Square.
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