Dam Square and Royal Palace
Dam Square is located in the historical center of Amsterdam. It is dominated by the National Monument, which is a stone pillar erected in 1956 in order to commemorate the victims of World War II. The most remarkable buildings of the city stand around the square: the Gothic Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) and the Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum.

In addition, the Royal Palace is placed on the west side of Dam Square. Designed by Jacob van Campen in 1648, this building served as the City Hall of Amsterdam. Under the request of King Louis Napoleon in 1808, the city hall was turned into a royal palace. The famous artist Rembrandt painted a major part of the interiors of this marvelous building in Neo-classical style. Further, it holds a large collection of Empire style furniture, chandeliers and clocks. Nowadays, her Majesty the Queen uses the palace mainly for official purposes.