Their contributions to science, philosophy and the arts left an incredible legacy. In 1632 Benedito de Spinoza was born here, a brilliant philosopher whose thought on liberal philosophy and politics has inspired the systems of liberal democratic government of today. In the late 17th century the Jewish community received a large influx of Ashkenazim Jews from eastern Europe. This further developed its inimitable character. Anne Frank, whose diary gives an amazing perspective on the suffering of the Jews during the holocaust, belonged to this community.
Description:
The suffering of the Jewish community during this period is writ large in the monuments and museums of the area. Howevr this is not the defining aspect of this beautiful neighbourhood. Here the dominant ethos is of survival, and success. The Jewish community has gone from strength to strength, recovering from the terror of the war and emerging as a stronger, prouder community. A tour of the Jewish quarter will leave you in no doubt of the indomitable will and strength of Amsterdam’s Jewish Quarter.
The rich history of the Amsterdam Jewish Quarter is perfectly displayed in the many sights and venues that are unforgettable for anyone passionate about the history of the city. The Jewish Cultural Quarter is home to some of Amsterdam’s most popular and famous attractions such as:
- Jewish Historical Museum
A trend setting museum housed in four synagogues. The museum’s large multimedia collection ranges from paintings to 3D presentations and it always offers one or two temporary exhibitions.
- JHM Children’s Museum
Set inside the Jewish Historical Museum, this clever institution provides fun ways for children to learn about Jewish history and heritage.
- The Portuguese Synagogue
In the center of the Jewish Quarter stands the magnificent Portuguese Synagogue, built in 1675. This spectacular building boasts a preserved 17th century interior and the Ets Haim – the oldest functioning Jewish library in the world.
- Hollandsche Schouwburg (National Holocaust Memorial), a moving historic monument.
The Hollandsche Schouwburg theatre acted as a deportation center during the Second World War. Thousands of people waited there, uncertain of their fate, before being deported to concentration camps. Today the building is an unmissable memorial to those lost, and houses a memorial wall and exhibition on the Holocaust in the Netherlands.
- Waterlooplein
a long-running, open-air flea market that was the central 19th-century market for the Jewish community.
Highlights:
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Duration: 1 to 2 hrs
Voucher Redembtion: You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.
