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Allard Pierson Museum Amsterdam
Allard Pierson is an archaeological museum located in the heart of Amsterdam. It has a fine collection of Mediterranean artefacts (pottery, coins, jewellery, statues etc) dating from 4000BC to 500A.D. The collection covers finds from Egypt, Cyprus, Greece, the Near East and a range of items from Italy including Roman and Etruscan. |
The museum name is derived from Mr Allard Pierson (1831 - 1896), the first professor of Classical Archaeology at the University of Amsterdam - it is still officially part of the university. The museum first opened its doors way back in 1934 at Sarphatistraat but the current central location has been in place since 1976. 2009 marked the 75th anniversary of the museum and special exhibitions were held.
The museum can be 'done' in an hour or two. The exhibits are on 2 levels and are well presented with good lighting. Explanations are in Dutch with main summaries in English - however it could probably do with a bit more English labelling for individual items, as is often the case with some museums in Netherlands.
The Egyptian section is quite fascinating, particularly the exhibits about mummification. Children (and adults) can use a computer to get their name printed out in basic hieroglyphics. There is also a good collection of large plaster cast statues which are copies of sculptures from Greek and Roman periods.
The Allard Pierson is connected to the adjacent Special Collections (Bijzondere Collecties) of University of Amsterdam - there is a museum cafe there as well.
The museum is located on Oude Turfmarkt which runs parallel to Rokin, near the Spui. It is 10 - 15 minutes walk from Central Station or take trams 4, 9, 16, 24 and 25 to Spui.
Note the museum is closed on Monday and some public holidays. Opening times are 1000 on weekdays and 1300 at weekends, closing at 1700.
Admission is €6.50 for adults, concessions are €3.25. Free entry for children under 4 and holders of the Museumkaart Pass or Iamsterdam cards.
Allard
Pierson Museum, Oude Turfmarkt 127, Amsterdam
T: +31(0)20 525 2556
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