The Royal Palace is located on the oldest square in Amsterdam: Dam square. The name Amsterdam is derived from the dam in the river Amstel. The square that was built around the dam was and still is the historic heart of the city. Originally the square was called Plaetse, but after the 16th century the square itself was also called 'De Dam'. The square used to be much smaller than it is now. The small town hall on the square soon became too small and was replaced by the large classicist building, now known as the Koninklijk Paleis (Royal Palace). It was built by master builder Jacob van Campen, who was commissioned in 1648 to build an imposing town hall, fitting for the most important trading city in the world. The palace is built on no less than 13.659 piles.
Visit the Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is one of the three palaces used for official receptions. When the Royals does not use the palace, the building is open to the public. It really is worth a visit. See the immense Civic Hall, admire the enormous chandeliers and marble floor with globes and wander through the corridors and rooms.
