Find Hotels Near Royal Palace Amsterdam

The Royal Palace Amsterdam is a historic building located on Dam Square in the centre of Amsterdam. It was originally built as a city hall and served that purpose from 1655 to 1808, when it was converted into a royal palace for King Louis Napoleon, who then resided there until the French occupation in 1810. Today, the Royal Palace is used for state events and is open to the public for tours.

The impressive building was designed by Jacob van Campen in Dutch Classicism style and completed in 1665. Its grand façade stands at an impressive 230 feet wide and 97 feet high, and its interior boasts 8 galleries, 19 rooms and 2 grand halls. The palace also features a beautiful garden on its northern side and a large courtyard at the entrance.

Inside the palace are various important works of art such as Jan Steen’s ‘Garden of Love’ painting depicting an intimate moment between two lovers in the gardens of the palace; Rembrandt’s ‘Night Watch’ painting depicting a militia marching into battle; and Vermeer’s ‘Girl with Pearl Earring’ painting depicting a young girl wearing jewellery from her mother's collection.

In addition to its importance as an architectural site, the Royal Palace also holds great historical significance because it was here that Willem I of Orange proclaimed Holland's independence from Spain on July 26th 1581. The event is remembered each year with special commemorations held at the palace.

Today, visitors can explore all aspects of Amsterdam's history within this majestic building by taking guided museum tours or simply strolling around its grand interior spaces. After visiting this wonderful place one can truly understand why it has been called both "the heart" and "the face" of Amsterdam since 1655!