Places of interest in Amsterdam

Artis

In 1838, one of the Netherlands' best known zoos opened its doors. Over the years, the zoo has grown and today accommodates different ape varieties, small mammals, nocturnal animals, reptiles, hoofed animals, elephants, predators and birds. There is also an insect house, an African savannah, and an impressive aquarium. Likewise, Artis does not neglect the arts, and also contains a geological museum, a children's farm, a planetarium and zoological museum. In short, Artis is well worth a visit.

www.artis.nl  

Het Begijnhof (The Beguinage)

Het Begijnhof was built in the 14th Century as a place of residence for devout women who nevertheless did not want to enter a convent. The oldest house in Amsterdam, with a wooden facade from about 1475, can also be seen here. Het Begijnhof also has a chapel that dates back to 1680. Its well maintained cottages and gardens make for an atmosphere of rural calm, despite the many people who come to het Begijnhof each year.

www.begijnhofamsterdam.nl  

Beurs van Berlage (The Berlage Exchange)

A unique building where Dutch trade prospered in the past, and which was designed by one of the best known Dutch architects, Hendrik Berlage (1856-1934). Berlage came to fame for his original architectural style and his notions on an architectural revival. His best known building, the Beurs van Berlage, has been declared the Dutch most famous 20th century architectural monument. The building, underneath which over 700 new support posts were only recently replaced, is now a palace of culture of the first order, and teeming with lectures, conferences, workshops, meetings, concerts and exhibitions.

www.berlage.com