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Dam Square

Old Town Historic Commercial Center

Named after the dam once built on the Amstel River, Dam Square is the political and commercial center of Amsterdam's Old Town and hosts a variety of ceremonies and events from time to time each year. Landmarks such as the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, the New Church, and the National Monument are located around the square.

Dam Square is the Political and Commercial Center of the Old Town of Amsterdam and originated in the 13th century. The square was once the site of the Amstel River Dam, hence the name Dam Square.

Manywhere Trivia:
The city name Amsterdam is a combination of the words Amstel and dam.

The Dam Square is not only surrounded by five-star hotels, specialty restaurants, shopping centers, and other commercial facilities, but also by many city landmarks such as the Amsterdam Royal Palace, the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk), the National Monument, and Madame Tussauds Museum.

Amsterdam Royal Palace is originally the city’s town hall, then it became the royal palace of the Netherlands in 1808 when Louis Bonaparte, brother of Napoleon I of France, turned it into his own residence.

Manywhere Trivia:
The current main residence of the Dutch royal family has been moved to The Hague.

The New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) on the north side of Dam Square was built in the early 15th century, went several fires and renovations. Today the church building is mainly used for cultural exhibitions and organ performances.

On the east side of the square, two majestic stone lions guard the National Monument. The white cenotaph was erected in 1956 to commemorate those who died in World War II.

Every day the Dam Square is jammed with people enjoying the Street Performances, applauding and cheering for local street artists. Dam Square is also the venue for a variety of large ceremonies and events, so don’t be surprised if you come across a celebrity or a royal family member while walking through the square.