Amsterdam Beurs van Berlage: why you should visit.

The Beurs van Berlage: an introduction

In the center of Amsterdam an important monument of modern Dutch architecture is located: the Beurs van Berlage. The Beurs van Berlage was built as a trade center in 1903, and was named after its architect. The architect Berlage belonged to the new generation of architects of that time: he didn’t use as much classical styles in his designs, but mostly strived for a renewal in architecture. Nowadays he still is known as one of Hollands’ most important architects of modern architecture. With this building he intented to create a place that would only function as a trade center for a limited amount of time. Berlage was a socialist and was convinced that kapitalism wouldn’t last long. He envisioned the purpose of the Beurs as public space for all citizens to use. He couldn’t have imagined that actually this is the funtion of the building nowadays!

It is interesting to take a look inside the building and to understand a bit of the history of it!

Fun facts about the time the Beurs van Berlage was built

To give you an impression of in which time this building was build: it was the time the Amsterdam Zoo celebrated its 50th anniversary, a new soccer club was founded with the name Ajax, and it was also during these years the first Dutch car was build! Another fun fact: in 2002 the Dutch king and queen got married in the Beurs van Berlage! Therefore, already for only that reason you should visit it, but there is more, continue reading!

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To do in Beurs van Berlage nowadays

Anno 2016 the Beurs van Berlage isn’t a quiet place. Actually there is happening a lot! Through the year the Beurs is used a lot for conferences, symposia, business and expositions. On the website you can check the calendar to find out what is currently happening! The Beurs van Berlage has also been renovated recently, only since November 2015 it is open again.

It’s difficult to miss out on Beurs van Berlage as it is located nearby the central station

And don’t forget to take a look at the building itself

The building itself is fascinating too, and it’s worth to take a closer look at it. You will find a lot of interesting details, for example the statues in the walls, the poems, and also other decorations in and outside the building with a lot of symbolism put by Berlage in it. A nice extra feature is that you can find two cafes to enjoy a nice drink in the building. One is the Grand Cafe and the other is the New York Film Academy Cafe which is named after the film institute which is also located in The Beurs van Berlage.

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Practical information

The Beurs van Berlage you can find at Damrak no 243 and it is easy to find. From the Amsterdam Central station walk into the direction of Dam square via the street Damrak. After 200 meters you will find Beurs van Berlage at the left of the street. Besides, continue walking on this street and another 200 meters further you will find yourself on the Dam square with the palace and the WW2 monument! Check out the website of Beurs van Berlage for further information such as opening hours and events. Don’t forget to purchase the I amsterdam City Card* for your stay in Amsterdam. The I amsterdam City Card is your ticket to a more affordable, action-packed trip to Amsterdam. It provides free entry to the city’s top attractions, unlimited travel on public transport, a free canal cruise and significant discounts and giveaways.

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