No, no, this certainly does not mean that gentlemen are forbidden to enter! The name Dam Square comes from the dam (Dutch: “Dam”) that was built on the Amstel River in the 13th century. Gradually it expanded so much that it became the city's central square, and at the same time the main venue for public festivities, fairs, and even rallies.
Many famous Amsterdam attractions are located on Dam Square. For example, one of the oldest buildings in the city is Nieuwe Kerk (New Church). Although it is called New, it was actually built in the 15th century. Construction began as early as 1380 on the site of the Old Church, which over time became too small for the growing city and could no longer accommodate all the parishioners. The construction of the New Church lasted a full 70 years. Since then, it has suffered several fires. But numerous restorations helped the church "survive" to the present day.
Today, services are no longer held at the New Church; instead, numerous guided tours, exhibitions, and organ concerts take place here. But most importantly, this is where weddings and coronations of Dutch royals are held!
Not far from the New Church stands the magnificent Royal Palace. It was built in the mid-17th century, and many still consider it the eighth wonder of the world. The thing is that the majestic palace building stands on 12-meter wooden piles. Every Dutch schoolchild remembers their number by heart - 13,659 pieces (they simply add the digit “1” before the number of days in the year, “365,” and then add the digit “9” at the end). These wooden piles were needed so that the building would stand firmly on the unstable marshy ground.
Originally, the building was constructed for the City Hall, and it was indeed located there until 1808. Then Holland was occupied by Napoleon, who placed his brother on the throne. And since the City Hall building was the largest in the city at that time, it was chosen as the Royal Palace. Interestingly, right after construction it was yellow, because sandstone was used in its construction. But over the years this material absorbed so much dust and dirt that it became almost black in appearance.
Another strategically important tourist site on Dam Square is Madame Tussauds Wax Museum. It is world-famous for its incredibly realistic copies of famous actors, athletes, show business stars, and politicians. In addition, they stage an entire show here with talking and moving figures that tell visitors about the country's history and symbols.
The white stone obelisk on Dam Square is the National Monument, erected in honor of the heroes who gave their lives during World War II. It is 22 meters high. And behind it stands the 5-star grand hotel “Krasnapolsky”. This building was constructed in 1865.
At about the same time, but on another street, the first “De Bijenkorf” shop opened. It sold buttons and various sewing supplies. In the 20th century it moved to Dam Square, and now it is a huge 6-story department store featuring all the famous brands. Even if you do not intend to make any purchases, still step inside - you will not find such chic and elegance in modern shopping centers. Perhaps that is why it bears the title “Royal Bijenkorf”.
