<<

Dam Square Manning Liu Kuankuan Yan

Dam Square is a town square located in , the capital of the . Its location, layout and frequent events held there make it become one of the most well-known interests in the city and the country. If wandering in the square, visitors would see notable buildings, street entertainers and tourists from various countries.dam square is regarded as

the most dynamic area in Amsterdam.

History As the name shows, the square was functioned as a dam at the beginning. Built in about 12th century, the dam connected the settlements and the sides of the river.

Then it became wide enough for a town square. After that, Dam Square have been the commercial and political center in this city for many years. It also witnessed many social and political activities. In 1648, new town hall started construction. This classical and grand building is still a landmark in this square now. National monument is another attraction in the square, it was designed in honour of the victims during the second war. The old town hall, weigh house and a large fish market were located there. But the weigh house was demolished in 1808 by order of Louis Bonaparte who complained that his view was obstructed. Nowadays As time passed by, Dam Square now is a peaceful place as home to pigeons and performers in contrast with the old days. As we can see in the illustration of Location, Dam

Square is really like a beating heart to the city. Location There are varieties of food stalls, restaurants and popular shops like Bijenkorf, Magna Plaza, Bonneterie and the Amsterdam Diamond Centre. Besides, other attractions like Koninklijk Paleis Amsterdam, National Monument, Madame Tussauds (the world famous wax works museum) and the New Church (also named Nieuwe Kerk, often used for important art exhibitions) are another reason for so many people from the local to all around the world come to this place. Dam Square

Attractions

Dam Square is so popular that sometimes a seat at one of the many cafés and bars is needed to wait for. No matter in what kind of weather or season, there are always some entertainments to be expected. There may be a carnival in spring and many street performers will come out to surprise people in summer. In conclusion, Dam Square is a ceremonial place for the city of Amsterdam. Its historic significance and central location make it irreplaceable for both civic life and tourism.