Dutch architect J.J.P. Oud created the stone monument, while John Rädecker and his sons designed the monument's sculptures that represent members of the Dutch resistance; four chained male figures showing the misery of war and a woman holding a child, symbolizing peace.
Travelers have many options to explore the Damrak as part of half- or full-day sightseeing tours that travel by hop-on hop-off double-decker bus, by bike, on foot, or via hop-on hop-off canal cruise. Specialized tours may incorporate a beer cruise, a meal, or a drink at a local bar. Trace eight centuries of Dutch history and cultural traditions on tours that include the Damrak can include other top attractions, such as the Royal Palace, Rembrandt House Museum, Anne Frank House, Dam Square, and the Red Light District.
The National Monument is on Dam Square between the Royal Palace and Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky, in the heart of Amsterdam, and is easily accessible on foot or by public transit, including trams (4, 9, 14, 16, 24). Centraal Station is a three-minute walk away.
The National Monument is accessible day and night, year-round. Every May 4, the Dutch royal family participates in National Remembrance Day, paying their respects to fallen soldiers from both WWII and subsequent armed conflicts involving the Netherlands. High season for travelers is during the warm summer months. For fewer tourists and lovely mild temperatures, visit Amsterdam is between April and May or September and November, right before or directly after the summertime high tourist season.
Owing its name from the dam that was once there, built in 1275 when Amsterdam was a harbour city and boats would moor up to where the square stands these days. Along with National Monument memorializing Dutch fallen soldiers, are many of the city’s most important sites here:xa0 Royal Palace, Gothic Nieuwe Kirk (New Church), upscale department store De Bijenkorf, and Beurs van Berlage concert hall.
