Dam Square accessibility

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The Dam Square is situated in the historical center of Amsterdam. The Dam derives its name from its original function: a dam on the Amstel River, hence also the name of the city. Built in 1270, approximately, the dam formed the first connection between the settlements on the sides of the river. As the dam was gradually built up it became wide enough for a town square, which remained the core of the town that developing around it. The area became a centre not only of commercial activity but also of the government, as the site of Amsterdam’s town hall. The Dam Square is covered with cobblestones which can make it a challenging route for wheelchair users, mobility scooters and people with limited mobility. However, the paths around the Dam Square have better pavements. Situated on and near the Dam Square and accessible for people with physical access needs, are Madame Tussauds, the Royal Palace and the Amsterdam Museum.

The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is one of three palaces in the Netherlands which are at the disposal of the monarch by Act of Parliament. The palace was built as a city hall during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century. It is used for Royal Events like the reception of the foreign heads of state during their visits in The Netherlands the King’s New Year reception and other official receptions. Every year, it provides the setting for the presentation of various official and royal prizes. The building is wheelchair friendly. The facilities include a lift and wheelchairs that can be borrowed. The building provides plenty of space to move freely an adapted toilet is available.

Dam, Amsterdam

Website: www.paleisamsterdam.nl

Amsterdam Museum

Located in the one of the oldest buildings in the city, the Amsterdam Museum exhibits various items related to the history of Amsterdam. Pieces from the Middle Ages to the present time and a large number of masterpieces, such as an aerial map from the Middle Ages and Breitner’s The Dam. At the Amsterdam Museum you can learn how the city of Amsterdam has developed. The museum offers easy access with lifts and adapted toilets. For reasons relating to safety, it is not possible to visit the Amsterdam Museum on a mobility scooter or in an electric wheelchair. The wheelchair stair lift in the entrance area has a maximum capacity of 250 kilos. You may however make use of the loan wheelchair (can be booked by telephone). If you visit the museum with a care assistant, he/she will not be required to pay admission.

Amsterdam Museum, Kalverstraat 92, 1012 PH Amsterdam

Website: www.amsterdammuseum.nl

How to get there?

Amsterdam Central Station is the nearest train station to the Dam Square, a ten minute walk. It is also possible to go by tram: 1, 2, 5, 17 and 20 stop at Magna Plaza/Dam and Tram 4, 9, 16, 20, 24, 25 stop at Bijenkorf/Dam. The most convenient parking is underneath The Bijenkorf warehouse. The parking has spaces available for visitors with disabilities.