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Royal Palace Amsterdam
The Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis) in Amsterdam is the imposing building found on Dam Square next to the Nieuwe Kerk and is regularly open to public visitors. |
The building was designed by Jacob van Campen (1596-1657) and opened in 1655 as Amsterdam's Town Hall. It was proclaimed the 'Eighth Wonder of the World' reflecting the confidence and status of the city during the Golden Age period.
| In 1808 it became an imperial palace and brief residence of Louis Napoleon, the brother of Napoleon who had been installed as King of Netherlands. In 1813 the Palace was taken over by Prince William of Orange and remains in use by the Dutch royal house to this day - for official functions and state visits. A major renovation took place between 2005 and 2009. |
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When not in official use the palace is open to the public - it is worthy of a visit just to see the Citizen's Hall (Burgerzaal). This 30m high room is particularly striking as the sunlight streams in from the windows. It has marble floors inlaid with maps of the western and eastern hemispheres and also contains some great sculptures by Artus Quellijn and paintings from the likes of Ferdinand Bol and Govert Flinck.
A number of smaller rooms around the Citizen's Hall are open for visit which contain much of the original furniture from Napoleon's period.
Royal Palace Essential Info Opening Times: 1200-1700 (1100-1700 during July & August). Note, the Royal Palace is open daily in July/August but sporadically during the rest of the year - often being closed for various events. Check their calendar here if planning a visit. Admission Prices (2012): Entry costs €7.50 for adults and €6.50 for 65+/children 5-16. Free entry for under 5s and museum card holders. Free hand-held audio guides are available; guided group tours can also be arranged for a fee. Getting There: The Royal Palace is located on Dam Square - in the centre of Amsterdam, and just 10 minutes walking from central station. Our Rating:
Koninklijk
Paleis Amsterdam, Dam |
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