It is the most central square in Amsterdam and the place where it all started: Dam square. In the middle of the thirteenth century a dam was built in the river Amstel. Over the years, this dam became wider and wider and provided a market square with an inner harbor and an open connection to the sea. We now know these places as Dam square, Rokin and Damrak. The village that arose near the dam would grow into the largest city in the Netherlands: Amsterdam.
In the fourteenth century, the ever-growing city needed a town hall. This town hall was built on Dam square, but burned down completely in 1652. In 1655 it was replaced by a new town hall. The building remained in use as town hall until 1808 and was then used as a palace by King Louis Napoleon. After the fall of Napoleon in 1815, it continued to be used as a Royal Palace, but now owned by the Dutch Royal Family. Today the palace is used for ceremonial state and family functions. During state visits, the visiting head of state is received in the Royal Palace and stays there during his or her visit. When the Royal Palace is not in use, the building is open to the public.
When the Oude Kerk (Old Church) became too small for the growing city of Amsterdam, a second church was built on Dam Square. The Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) was consecrated in 1409. The church has been hit by major fires three times over the years, but each time it has been restored to its former glory. Since 1814, the Nieuwe Kerk has been used for inaugurations and weddings of the royal family. At the end of the twentieth century, the church underwent a major restoration. Since then, in addition to royal events, the church has been used for exhibitions and cultural events.
The National Monument on Dam Square in Amsterdam was erected in memory of all Dutch people who lost their lives as a result of acts of war during the Second World War. The monument was unveiled on 4 May 1956 by the then Queen of the Netherlands: Her Royal Highness Queen Juliana. The National Remembrance Day is held here on may 4th every year. The whole of the Netherlands will be silent for two minutes at 8 p.m. in memory of all Dutch war victims of the Second World War and after.
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