Rijksmuseum, the Main Museum of the Netherlands

Hello! I’m Liliya and I love cultural tourism: visiting museums and castles, palaces and cathedrals. I’m keen on learning history, art, customs and traditions. I’d like to share some interesting facts about the Rijksmuseum.

The Rijksmuseum is not just a museum, it is the cultural heart of Amsterdam and Dutch history. It was first opened in 1800 in the Hague as the National Art Gallery. In 1808, by order of King Louis Bonaparte, it was moved to Amsterdam and renamed “Rijksmuseum” (which means “State Museum” in Dutch).

The current building of the Rijksmuseum, located in the Museum Quarter of Amsterdam, was opened in 1885. It was designed by architect Pierre Cuypers in a style that combines Gothic and Renaissance elements. The building is very impressive with its arches, towers, carvings, and stained glass windows. It is not only home to thousands of masterpieces, but it is also a historical monument.

Inside the museum, there are more than 8,000 exhibits on four floors. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, furniture, jewelry, old weapons, porcelain, clocks, silverware, and many other things that show the history and art of the Netherlands from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.

The Rijksmuseum is most famous for its paintings from the Dutch “Golden Age” of the 17th century. You can see famous works by Rembrandt, including his most famous painting, “The Night Watch”, which has its own special room. There are also works by Johannes  Vermeer, Frans Hals, Jan Steen, Jacob van Ruisdael, and other great artists.

But the museum is not just about paintings. You can also find models of ships that tell stories about the country’s maritime past, knight’s armor, musical instruments, furniture, and objects from daily life from different periods. These exhibits help us understand how people lived and show the rich culture of the Netherlands.

The Asian collection occupies a special place – sculptures, engravings, and objects from China, Japan, and Indonesia are located in a separate pavilion.

During World War II, the museum’s most valuable items were moved to safe places to protect them from damage. From 2003 to 2013, the museum underwent a major renovation, which gave it modern rooms, better lighting, and new exhibitions while keeping its historic charm.
Today, the Rijksmuseum is not just a museum. It is also a place for cultural events, educational programs, exhibitions, and workshops. Every year, more than two million visitors from around the world come to see it. It is one of Amsterdam’s top attractions and a must-visit place to see amazing art, learn about history, and experience Dutch culture.

Why is it worth visiting the Rijksmuseum?

• It houses the most famous paintings in the world.
• The museum tells about the history and culture of the Netherlands.
• It is a strikingly beautiful building and has modern design.
• It is interesting for both adults and children – there are interactive zones and master classes.
• Modern technologies help to understand art better.

Why do I want to visit the Rijksmuseum?

• I want to see the famous paintings, especially Rembrandt’s “Night Watch”.
• I am interested in the history of the Netherlands and how it is shown in the museum through art and old objects.
• I also want to see the beautiful museum building and feel the atmosphere of this special place.