Behind the scenes at the National Slavery Museum

Kop van Java

The National Slavery Museum will open in Amsterdam in 2030. It will be located at the Kop van Java (head of Java Island). Preparations are already in full swing. Construction will take a long time because it will be built sustainably. The museum also talks to local residents. How do they see the museum's arrival? And how does it fit into their neighbourhood?

Pop-up exhibition

During the ToekomstTiendaagse, you can visit a pop-up exhibition. This exhibition shows you the plans for the museum, and you learn about the history of Java Island. There is an outdoor exhibition, a digital walk through the neighbourhood and various lectures. You can view more information in the windows of Hotel Jakarta.

Past and future come together

The museum is not just here. Java Island has a history related to slavery and colonial trade. In the 19th century, the port of the Stoomvaart Maatschappij Nederland was located here. Ships sailed from here to the Dutch colonies, especially to Indonesia. They transported emigrants, civil servants, and many ordinary people—including contract workers—after the abolition of slavery.

During the ToekomstTiendaagse, you will discover this often-forgotten story and learn how the new museum gives this history a place in the city of the future.

Practical information:

• Thursday 12 to Saturday 21 June
• Head of Java Island
• Free entrance
• From 6 years