Amsterdam became well-known city to large population of India through the sleeper hit Hindi film "Queen". However, among the travelers it always had the reputation. And this little gem of Dutch lived up to the hype and expectations.
Once we are out of Amsterdam station, we were welcomed by sea of people, trams, and bikers. It was our first evening in the city. Bone chilling wind blew on our face giving us the first taste of oncoming winter. As we didn't have any set plan, the best thing to do was just follow the natural flow of people. We strolled through restaurants, trendy cannabis coffeeshops, beautiful canals and the legendary alleys of De Wallen.
The heart-pounding music and high-octane screams brought us to the Dam Square. The atmosphere was absolutely carnival with giant Ferris wheel, high-flying swing carousel, dazzling shops, and vibrant lights.
Amsterdam is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the world. It is the fastest, most flexible and super cool way to move around the city. The reason for mentioning this is after seeing thousands of bicycles parked near the square. Believe us, in Amsterdam you will see cycles and cyclists everywhere. And if you are walking lost in appreciating the mesmerizing canals, there are chances of colliding with bikers whirling on both sides, bells clanging. We digress.
In the center of the square is the "national monument" built in 1956 as a tribute to the Dutch soldiers who died in World War II. This 72 feet pillar was designed by J.J.P. Oud, and sculptures are done by John Rädecker and his sons Han and Jan Willem Rädecker. In the center there are four shackled male figures equating the the misery and hardship of the war. On either side two male figures represent the resistance by intelligentsia as well as working class respectively towards the war. While weepy dogs at their feet symbolize loyalty and torment, a lady with a child in her arms and doves flying around her signifies the victory, peace, and new life. We couldn't get the clear shot because of low light as well as horde of pigeons.
On the west side of square is the Royal palace. Originally it was built as a city hall in 17th century during Dutch Golden Age. In 1806, Louis Napoleon (Brother of Napoleon Bonaparte) converted the town hall into a palace for himself. The ownership changed a few times depending on the political clout during that period. Finally in 1936 it was made as the sole property of Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Next to palace is the "Nieuwe Kerk", a 15th century church. At one time it was a Dutch Reformed Church parish, but now it is a part of Protestant Church in the Netherlands. Even so, it no longer functions as a church. The space is mainly used for exhibitions.
The two more popular things in the square is "Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum and "Ripley's Believe It or Not". We couldn't help but wonder these two franchises (if we could say so) have their presence in almost all major cities. They are okay if you are a fan, but not in Amsterdam. This magical city offers many sinful activities and better you be indulgent here. You can also spot Grant Hotel Krasnapolsky and department store De Bijenkorf.
A dam was built around the river Amstel to prevent the Zuiderzee sea from flooding the city in the 13th century, that is why the city is called Amsterdam and that is how the "Dam Square" came into existence for the first time. Now it is one of the most important locations in the city, bustling day and night with locals, tourists, and travelers.
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