I love exploring my beautiful city and learning more about its rich history. This weekend, on the 8th and 9th of September, is the Open Monuments Day in Amsterdam. The perfect occasion to discover the many special monuments of which some of them are normally closed to the general public. 43 monuments throughout the city will open their doors to welcome visitors this weekend.
Pictures by Open Monumenten Dag
Due to the European Year of Cultural Heritage, the theme of this year is ‘Typical Amsterdam?’. That means that the focus of this weekend will be on the historical connection that Amsterdam has with many European countries and cities and inhabitants that, back in the days, brought a bit of Europe form their country of origin with them to Amsterdam.
Pictures by Open Monumenten Dag
But don’t be mistaken now, there is more to do then just walking into beautiful monuments. Activities, like movies, lectures and theatre are just a few examples of the activities that will be organized on some locations during this special weekend. A few of my personal favourites will also open their doors. For instance, Royal Palace Amsterdam, ‘De Bazel’ and the Old Lutheran Church. But I might go exploring to some other places a bit further from my home… Who knows. 😉
Pictures by Open Monumenten Dag
Amsterdam also knows a few big family businesses, like Heiniken Brewery, Kesbeke, De Bijenkorf and Gassan Diamonds. These businesses have been passed on from generation to generation and have become ‘typical Amsterdam’ over time, too. These four businesses will open their doors as well this weekend and tell you more about its history and take you behind the scenes of the business.
Pictures by Open Monumenten Dag
So, there’s plenty to do and visit this weekend! Luckily, the organisation made it a bit easier, by making some suggestions for (family) routes on their website and in their booklet. Ad not to forget, if you’re not that into bringing booklets with you anymore, you can also download the ‘Open Monumentendag Amsterdam’ app.
Pictures by Open Monumenten Dag
The admission for Open Monuments Day is free. But do check out their website or booklet as some locations and activities have a maximum number of visitors or have a specific timeframe.
So many things to see this weekend, and so (relatively) little time. I’m looking forward to a weekend of strolling around and getting wonderfully lost in my gorgeous city. What are you up to this weekend?
Ps. If you’re interested, you can find their booklet on the table in my living room.
Sincerely,
Mr. J
Open Monuments Day Amsterdam
https://www.amsterdam.nl/toerisme-vrije-tijd/evenementen/open-monumentendag/
8th and 9th of September, 2018
10 am – 5 pm on many locations in Amsterdam
(€) – free entrance
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