Royal Palace - Royal Palace information and pictures



A former city hall built for the burgomaster in 1648 by architect Jacob van Campen, the present day Royal Palace or Koninklijk Paleis is filled with artistic treasures and period Empire furniture. Situated on historic Dam Square, the massive neo-classical building is used for royal functions and receptions. Visitors can take a guided tour to view works of art by Flemish sculptors Artus Quellinus, Rombout Verhulst and Rembrandt pupils, Ferdinand Bol and Govert Flinck.

History - When Louis Napoleon, Bonaparte’s brother, rode into town in 1808 as Holland’s new ruler, he commandeered the city hall building as his royal residence. He proceeded to decorate the palace with precious works of art and stunning Empire furnishings. When his rule ended, the palace once again became the property of the city. King William I used it for a time as his official residence, until the city purchased it in 1935 and restored it for use as the Dutch Royal Palace. The original building was constructed with gleaming white stone, but became weathered and discolored over the centuries.

Tours - When not in use for royal receptions, guided tours are available of the lavishly decorated palace function rooms. Of particular note are: the city treasurer's room with its ceiling murals by Cornelius Holsteyn, the Mayor's Chamber with a painting by Jan Lievens, the Hall of the Aldermen and the enormous Council Hall.

The stunningly preserved pieces of French Empire furniture left behind by Napoleon are not to be missed. The Empire style furniture was developed by Napoleon's architects Percier and Fontaine and is the largest collection of its kind in the world.

Where is Royal Palace: Dam Square
Royal Palace Amsterdam



Please help us build a better site. Add your comments about Royal Palace here.

User Comments about Royal Palace