Dam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Dam Square is a bustling town square in the capital city of the Netherlands. There's always something going on there regardless of the season. Originally a dam on Amstel River built in 1270, it formed the first connection between the various settlements on either side of the river.
Above and below are photos of the National Monument, where the Remembrance of the Dead ceremony is held at annually on 4 May to commemorate those who perished in World War II and subsequent armed conflicts. It was erected in 1956.
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| The towering monument was erected in 1956. |
Hidden behind its lively atmosphere are two bloody events: the shooting on 7 May 1945 and the riot that happened on the day of the coronation of Queen Beatrix on 30 April 1980.
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| Frankly speaking, I've never been to any of the Madame Tussaud's was museums. |
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| Such an intricate lamp post design! |
Nieuwe Kerk (lit. New Church) was constructed from 1380 to 1408 in response to the expanding population of the city that could no longer be accommodated by the oldest parish church: Oude Kerk (lit. Old Church).
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| The building is now used as an exhibition space, not for church services anymore. |
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| Don't ask me why, but the moment I saw it, I immediately thought of Darkwing Duck. |
The Neoclassical Royal Palace, which used to be a city hall from 1655 to 1807, stands on the west end of the square.
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| Louis Napoleon Bonaparte once lived in the majestic palace. |
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| A weather vane in the form of a cog ship sits on the domed cupola. |
A funfair is held on the square several times a year, such as on King's Day and around Christmas. Have you been to one?
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