Dam Square

Dam Square

Dam Square is a square in Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, known for its striking buildings and frequent activity. The square is roughly rectangular in shape, approximately 200 meters long from east to west and about 100 meters wide from north to south. It was once the only city center square of Amsterdam. The Amstel River used to flow through the square, and the first dam was built here, hence the name. The name Amsterdam (meaning “dam on the Amstel River”) originates from this.

On the west side of Dam Square stands the neoclassical Royal Palace, which served as the city hall since 1655 and became a royal palace in 1808. To the north of the square is the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church). The Madame Tussauds wax museum is located on the southern side, while on the eastern side stands the white National Monument, built in 1956 to commemorate the victims who suffered under Nazi occupation during World War II. Dam Square is the political and commercial heart of Amsterdam. Formerly home to the city hall, weigh house, and fish market, it remains one of the city’s most vibrant spots. The air is filled with the aroma of coffee, while quirky street performers captivate passersby, often drawing bursts of applause.

Dam Square

Must-visit reason: Amsterdam’s most vibrant square

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Netherlands[Netherlands]

Province/State where the attraction is located: North Holland [North Holland]

City where the attraction is located: Amsterdam [Amsterdam]