The name Amsterdam originates from the Dam in the Amstel river. The square, formed around the dam is the historical heart of the city. Originally the square was called the ‘Plaetse’, but after the 16th century it was referred to as Dam. In those days, the square was much smaller than nowadays and the small gothic city hall was replaced by the large, classical building we know as the Koninklijk Paleis (Royal Palace). The Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) is next to the Koninklijk Paleis. This monumental church, where Queen Beatrix’ crowning took place in 1980 and her son, crown prince Willem-Alexander got married with Máxima Zorreguieta, is worth visiting.
The name Amsterdam originates from the Dam in the Amstel river. The square, formed around the dam is the historical heart of the city. Originally the square was called the ‘Plaetse’, but after the 16th century it was referred to as Dam. In those days, the square was much smaller than nowadays and the small gothic city hall was replaced by the large, classical building we know as the Koninklijk Paleis (Royal Palace). The Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) is next to the Koninklijk Paleis. This monumental church, where Queen Beatrix’ crowning took place in 1980 and her son, crown prince Willem-Alexander got married with Máxima Zorreguieta, is worth visiting.
