Royal Palace on Dam Square
Offering rooms previously off limits to the public and one of the world's largest collections of Empire furnishings, the newly renovated Royal Palace on Dam Square is certainly worth a visit.
Monumental and Modern Makeovers
The three and a half years of extensive interior renovations to the Royal Palace interior included everything from precious furnishings to practical facilities. The result is a historical treasure that returns it to the best of its 17th and 19th century splendor.
Highlights include four restored rooms that were previously closed to the public, as well as one of the world's most complete and well-preserved collections of Empire-style furniture and decorative arts, comprising nearly 2,000 pieces.
Aesthetic upgrades
Other aesthetic upgrades to the monumental interior include the restoration of reception halls and their architectural features and furnishings, including hand-painted ceilings, grand marble floors, epic sculptures and paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries. About half of the objects were left behind by Louis Napoleon during his brief reign as King of the Netherlands in the early 1800s. The collection now has been extended to include pieces acquired during the later reigns of Dutch Kings Willem (William) I and II.
From Town Hall to Imperial Palace
Plans for the Royal Palace date back to 1648, when the city government of Amsterdam commissioned architect Jacob van Campen to design a new town hall to reflect the power and status of the Dutch Golden Age of prosperity.
Completed in 1665, the building would serve as the Stadhuis (Town Hall) until 1808, when Louis Napoleon -- brother of French Emperor Napoleon -- declared it his personal residence during his brief reign as King of the Netherlands.
House of Orange
In 1813, Prince William of Orange (later King William I), returned the palace to the city of Amsterdam, but maintained the right to use it as a royal residence and hosting space when in the capital.
Today, the Royal Palace is used for state visits, the Dutch Royal House's New Year receptions and other official functions. When not in use by the Queen or members of the Royal House, the palace is open to the public and features exhibitions throughout the year.
Royal Palace Visitor Information
Location: Dam Square
Opening Times
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Summer season (June - August): Daily 11:00 -17:00
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Regular season (September - May): Tuesday - Sunday 12:00 - 17:00
Admission Fees
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Adults: € 7.50
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Children (5 - 16 years), seniors (+65 years) and students: € 6.50
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Children under 5 years: free
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Admission includes an audio tour
Further Reading
Visit the Royal Palace website for more information on exhibitions, guided tours and the history of the Palace. For more information about the Dutch monarchy, visit the Dutch Royal House website.
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