Dam Square Monument Attractions & Landmarks

War Memorial

De Dam
Amsterdam,
1012 JS
The Netherlands
Phone No. +31 20 551 2512

Transport Options
Train Available : Dam: Tram 1, 2, 5, 13, 17 & 20

Overview

In the 13th Century the river Amstel was dammed here and on the banks of the river a small fishing community was founded, called Amstelerdam. Boats could unload their freight here and alongside the Damrak. When the Nieuwe Kerk was rebuilt and the Royal Palace (originally the town hall) was built, the enclosed square served as the city center, both socially and for administrative purposes. The city was governed and law and order was maintained from here, as can be seen in pictures of public executions on a scaffold in front of the town hall. After WWII, the War Memorial was erected in Dam Square, which is now a gathering place for thousands of people and numerous pigeons.

Open Hours

  • Monday to Sunday from 12:00 AM to 12:00 AM

    Stunning Architectureby Yahoo | 2007-05-30 19:35:24 |

    Plenty of space and definitely worth a picture or two. There is the Palace, Madame Tussaud's, the National Monument, and a lovely church. It is on the Damrak which runs through the heart of the city. I doubt you could visit Amsterdam without seeing it!

    Rest your dogs and have a biteby Yahoo | 2007-05-29 18:37:05 |

    This is a great spot to just hang out on the weekend. If you've run out of cash - grab a hot dog/beverage and sit and enjoy the shows. I was there for a radical protest as well - it was a great environment. Easy access from the trams and lots to see and do - red light district is hiding right behind the big monumental structure - check it out while your nearby!! It's a hoot.

    Another beautiful ...by Yahoo | 2005-07-11 18:11:51 |

    spot in Amsterdam. Always lots of people and excitement. Grab a hotdog from a vendor and sit and watch the world go by. The mimes are wonderful. You might even catch the bicycle bar there.