National Monument travel guide

The National Monument, located in the heart of Amsterdam's bustling Dam Square, is a poignant symbol of Dutch history and resilience. Unveiled on May 4, 1956, it was built to honor the victims of World War II and serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made. The design, created by the renowned architect J.J.P. Oud, features a central obelisk flanked by allegorical sculptures symbolizing war, peace, and resistance.

Every year on May 4th, the Netherlands observes National Remembrance Day with a solemn ceremony at the monument, where the nation commemorates its fallen heroes. The monument's base contains urns with soil from the Dutch provinces and former colonies, symbolizing a unified tribute to those who perished.

Over the decades, the National Monument has evolved into a site of reflection and education, visited by thousands of tourists and locals alike. Its central location makes it an essential stop for anyone wishing to delve deeper into Dutch history and culture.

The National Monument in Amsterdam stands out with its striking design by architect J.J.P. Oud, featuring a central obelisk that rises to a height of 22 meters. This obelisk is adorned with intricate reliefs by the sculptor John Rädecker, which symbolize suffering, resistance, and liberation, encapsulating the monument’s purpose as a World War II memorial.

The surrounding bas-reliefs depict the ‘Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse,’ representing war, death, hunger, and disease. Additionally, the monument is flanked by two stone lions, which are emblematic of Dutch national pride and resilience. The use of white travertine stone gives the monument a solemn yet majestic presence in Dam Square, making it a focal point for both remembrance and reflection.

Another unique feature is the annual Remembrance of the Dead ceremony held here on May 4, which draws dignitaries and citizens alike to honor those lost in conflicts. The monument's central location in the heart of Amsterdam makes it easily accessible, allowing it to serve as a poignant reminder of history amidst the bustling city life.

The National Monument in Amsterdam features intricate sculptures by famed artist John Rädecker and his sons, showcasing allegorical figures representing Dutch virtues and wartime suffering. Lesser-known is that the monument's foundation contains urns with soil from World War II execution grounds, symbolizing a lasting connection to those who perished. The obelisk's design incorporates numerous symbolic elements, including chained lions at its base representing the strength and resilience of the Dutch people. Interestingly, the monument's completion in 1956 was celebrated with a grand ceremony attended by Queen Juliana. This iconic site has also become a focal point for various cultural and political gatherings, making it a dynamic part of Amsterdam's public life.

Located in the dynamic Amsterdam, the popular National Monument is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Amsterdam or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through the Netherlands.

Amsterdam is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Amsterdam offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Amsterdam and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, Vondelpark, and Dam Square.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Amsterdam has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Amsterdam, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in the Netherlands!

The best time to explore National Monument in Amsterdam is during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for walking around Dam Square, where the monument is prominently situated. Springtime in Amsterdam is particularly enchanting with the blooming tulips adding vibrant colors to the cityscape.

In contrast, early autumn offers a serene charm with fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed visit. Summer months (July and August) bring warm weather but also larger crowds, which may slightly diminish the tranquil experience of appreciating the monument's historical significance. However, summer also hosts several events and festivals that can enhance your visit.

Additionally, early May is a noteworthy time to visit as the National Monument becomes the focal point of National Remembrance Day (Dodenherdenking) on the 4th of May. This solemn event commemorates those who died in World War II and subsequent conflicts, adding a profound layer of meaning to your visit.

To make the most of your trip, aim for a weekday morning or late afternoon when crowd levels are typically lower, ensuring an unhurried and contemplative experience.

National Monument is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. If you're flying in, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is approximately 7.1 miles (11.4 km) away from Amsterdam. From there, you can easily reach National Monument by taxi or shuttle.

You can also rent a car and drive to National Monument, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Dam, 1012 JL Amsterdam, Netherlands, the Netherlands.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at National Monument!

To truly enjoy your visit to National Monument, joining a tour that features this popular monument in Amsterdam is highly recommended. As one of the Netherlands's most iconic attractions, National Monument draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to National Monument starting at just 28 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular National Monument and the Netherlands's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and the city of Amsterdam, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in the Netherlands cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Amsterdam and beyond.

Conveniently explore National Monument and plenty more captivating attractions in Amsterdam by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to National Monument and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Amsterdam has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting National Monument below.

Aside from National Monument, Amsterdam is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Amsterdam, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Anne Frank House.

Rijksmuseum is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Amsterdam, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 93,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Rijksmuseum is Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Another appreciated attraction in Amsterdam is Van Gogh Museum. Like Rijksmuseum, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 86,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Anne Frank House is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Amsterdam. This museum and top attraction in Amsterdam has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 65,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Amsterdam below.