The square’s beginnings dates back to the 13th Century when at this site a dam on the Amstel River was built in order to prevent the waters from Southern Sea from flooding the city. Its actual name is connected to the period of the 60s, when hippies used to meet at the square and make parties there. Since the 19th Century all sides of the Dam Square were surrounded by land, which liberated space for the Zocher stock exchange – demolished later to be substituted again by the De Bijenkorf department store. Nowadays, Dam square is a place featuring social and cultural events as well as intense nightlife. The square has been a witness to many changes in the history of the city and the Netherlands itself, so you will see plenty of historical sites in its vicinity.

The historical sites of the Dam Square are definitely worth attention, especially the Neo-Classical Royal Palace – a majestic building that was home of the Royal family in the 17th Century and nowadays kept its purpose as a venue for official occasions. Another attractive site is the Gothic Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), known for its interesting architecture. It is often used as a place of art exhibitions. In vicinity you can visit the National Monument, which was built there in 1956, to commemorate Dutch soldiers, deceased during World War II. The Madame Tussaud’s Wax museum is very interesting for a visit with its one-to-one statues, but keep in mind it would take a couple of hours to see all the models of popular celebrities. Like the San Marco Square in Venice, Dam Square also has many city pigeons, perfectly accustomed to bird-feeding Do not pass Beurs van Berlage without seeing it - situated in the old building of the Stock Exchange it hosts various cultural events such as concerts and exhibitions.

Nice restaurants, bars, food stalls and shops add to the charm of the square. You can enjoy the boutiques and jewellery stores, such as the modern Bijenkorf, Bonneterie, Magna Plaza and the prominent Amsterdam Diamond centre. No matter when you go to the Dam square, you will not be bored since there will be always interesting events going on – carnivals, street performances and others. On some holidays such as Christmas and the New Year’s Eve, a big funfair is held on the Dam Square and lots of people meet there to celebrate. If you come in spring, you can celebrate at various festivals, such as the Holland Festival or some other important events – Boxing Day, Queen’s Day, etc. This is a place to enjoy the unique combination of tranquillity and noise, traditions and modernism.