Old City Hall of Amsterdam, Medieval town hall in Dam Square, Netherlands
The Old City Hall of Amsterdam is a civic building on Dam Square with Gothic architecture, high spires, and ornate stone facades. Its interior halls retain their formal character with historical paintings and decorative details that reflect the status and importance of the institution.
Construction of this building began in 1390 and it served as the city's administrative heart for nearly 4 centuries. Following Napoleon's occupation, it was transformed into a palace in 1808, marking a significant shift in its role and use.
The building takes its name from its role as the seat of municipal authority, and its interior spaces still carry this sense of civic importance. The decorated halls and formal arrangements show how Amsterdam's citizens once gathered here to conduct the business of their growing city.
The building is open to visitors and can be explored during regular opening hours. Set aside time to walk around both the interior spaces and exterior facade, as it sits on a central square that is easily accessible by public transport.
Artist Pieter Jansz Saenredam painted the building with great detail in 1657, and his work now hangs in the Rijksmuseum. The painting shows the facade from an angle that differs from today, offering a glimpse into how the square looked in that era.
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