Dam Square is jam-packed with locals and tourists, day and night, and is just a five-minute walk from Centraal Station. It was created in the 13th century when a dam was built to prevent the Zuiderzee sea from swarming the sea. Dam Square was renowned for its Dam Square hippies in the sixties and the laid back and relaxed character of this densely populated square lives on.
There are many food stalls, restaurants and shops including the trendy Bijenkorf, Magna Plaza, Bonneterie and the Amsterdam Diamond centre. There is always something going on in the sqaure, through all types of weather, so expect lots of entertainment. In Spring, there may be a carnival on or you can take a ride on the colourful ferris wheel, and in the Summer, mimers and other performances are on show to surprise unexpected onlookers.
Without doubt, of all the attractions in Dam Square, the Royal Palace [Koninklijk Palace] is one of the best. It is no longer home to the Dutch Royal family, this 17th century Royal Palace is still used to hold official receptions.
Opposite Dam Square stands the National Memorial statue, erected in memory of the Dutch soldiers and resistance members who lost their lives in World War II. Other must sees in Dam Square are Madame Tussauds, the famous wax work museum and the New Church [Nieuwe Kerk].
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