This museum in Amsterdam has the world's largest collection of famous Dutch artist Vincent Van Gogh's works, from paintings to sketches and even letters. The museum chronicles the artist's career, from his years living in Nuenen, Netherlands beginning in 1880, up to his years in France and till his death in 1890. Some of Van Gogh's most famous works are on display in these galleries, including The Potato Eaters, Sunflowers and Bedroom in Arles. The museum also chronicles works by some of Van Gogh's artist friends and inspirations, including Toulouse-Lautrec and Paul Gauguin, with whom Van Gogh had a close friendship, and Jean-François Millet.
Rijksmuseum, also known as the National Museum, is considered a true national treasure. It features a vast collection of artwork and historic artifacts from the Middle Ages through to contemporary times, creating a veritable cornucopia of cultural riches. Its exhibits include the paintings of Rembrandt, Vermeer, Frans Hals and Jan Steen from the Netherlands' 17th-century Golden Age. Rembrandt's Night Watch is the museum's centerpiece. You'll also find works from the Middle Ages and the 18th and 19th Centuries, superb collections of silver and Delftware ceramics, old doll houses, and fantastic examples of Asian art. After undergoing renovation, the museum's 1885 Renaissance Revival building has been diligently restored and revamped to accommodate modern infrastructure. The museum building itself is a masterpiece of art and architecture, designed by Pierre Cuypers and ornamented with sculptures, paintings, tile tableaus and stained glass that allude to the nation's rich history.
Grachtengordel, also known as the Amsterdam Canal District, is the cultural hub of Amsterdam. The network of canals which date back to 17th Century - has been deemed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This neighborhood is also noted for its impeccable urban planning, which has stayed unmarred, even after four centuries. A major landmark situated in this area is the Anne Frank House, which is a museum dedicated to Anne Frank - the Jewish writer.
The story of Anne Frank is one that is known the world over; an emblematic personal account of the Holocaust that is now preserved at the Anne Frank House. Spurred by the German occupation of the Netherlands, and the subsequent persecution of the Jewish community, Anne went into hiding with her family on July 6, 1942. Over the course of two years, Anne maintained a diary detailing life in the Annex, that was eventually published by her father. Although there aren't many memorabilia, films and other sources, including Anne's diary, present a vivid picture of what life was like during those times. The museum opened on May 3, 1960, and the enormous visitors' center was constructed in the 1980s.
One of the city's oldest neighborhoods, the Jordaan traces its roots to the 17th Century as an area built for the working class. The neighborhood has since transformed into an upscale quarter. Today, the Jordaan is a harmonious blend of the old and new, with charming historical courtyards, stellar art galleries, and great dining options. Of particular interest are the markets regularly held at Noordermarkt, Lindengracht and Westerstraat, the Jordaan Museum, and the Westerkerk with its lofty bell tower. Over the years, the neighborhood's diverse makeup has also given rise to a distinctive musical style that is still celebrated through performances at Jordaan's many bars and cafes. Down the streets and along the canals of Jordaan, quaint historic homes and contemporary attractions vie for the attention of passer-byes.
This large, green oasis was created in the second half of the 19th Century, and named after the poet Joost van den Vondel (1587-1679), a statue of whom was unveiled here in 1867. Today Vondelpark, one of the most-visited spots in the city, is a restful haven for citizens away from the city's chaos. Come here for inline skating, let your children play in the large playground or have a cup of coffee on one of the four terraces.
Multatuli means "I suffered a lot" and was used as a pseudonym for the Dutch writer Eduard Douwes Dekker, who lived a century ago during the era of Dutch colonialism. His life experience during this period influenced his work and has a great impact even today, as a result of his most famous book, Max Havelaar - one of the most important classics in the history of Dutch literature. This museum houses all of his works and some of his personal belongings and furniture (his sofa, for example). Go back in time with Multatuli!
Atlantisstrand is a recreational beach located in Almere city. Its picturesque setting is perfect for all kinds of concerts and festivals. Visitors come here to enjoy some entertaining music festivals which feature country, pop, techno, deephouse and rock. There are various food and beverage options available onsite.
The church dates from 1669 and is believed to have been designed by Adriaan Dortsman, with the support of Daniel Stalpert. It is constructed in the shape of a Greek cross. The main entrance is from the side of the canal. Church services are no longer held here, though one can catch several concerts.
This pint-sized statue located beside the Oude Kerk in the center of Amsterdam's Red Light District was erected in honor of the millions of people throughout Amsterdam (and the world) who work in the sex trade, willingly or not. The statue was commissioned by the Prostitute Information Center's founder and operator Mariska Majoor, and was unveiled in March 2007 as part of the Red Light District's Second Open Day. Belle is the work of Dutch artist Els Rijerse and is made of steel reinforced bronze on top of a granite plinth.
Back in the 1960s, one sweet lady took in a stray cat and her kittens. Her house soon became too small for all the cats that followed and she moved to a houseboat in one of Amsterdam's lively canals. Even though cats hate water, they flourished in their new home and it since became a cat shelter where cats can go their own way, are not confined to cages and walk around like little captains. It is a unique and remarkable place. Two hours a day tourists are very welcome to come aboard and see this amazing shelter for themselves.
Designed by Jeroen Henneman, the Theo Van Gogh monument or more likely called 'The Scream' is a memorial dedicated in memory of slain film-director Theo Van Gogh. The Scream is a very simple yet powerful piece of art that depicts the profile of Van Gogh in a scream. Freedom of speech, is what the artist tries to convey through it as it was believed to be one of Theo Van Gogh's beliefs that was the bone of discontent for thousands.