Outdoor sights in Amsterdam
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A
Museumplein
Museumplein was laid out to host the World Exhibition in 1883, but gained its lasting title only when the Rijksmuseum was opened two years later. One of many facelifts raised a triangle of turf at the southern end, dubbed the ‘ass’s ear’ for its shape; it’s now a popular spot for sun worshippers. There’s a large supermarket, Albert Heijn, concealed below. For as long as anyone can remember, the square has been used for concerts, special events and political demonstrations. At other times it’s a relaxing place to hang out, play hacky-sack, skateboard (ramp provided), toss a frisbee or enjoy a picnic. In winter the long concrete pond is transformed into a festive skating ri…
reviewed
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B
Hollandsche Manege
Built in 1882, the Hollandsche Manege is an indoor riding school inspired by the famous Spanish Riding School in Vienna. Upstairs is a cafe where you can sip a beer or coffee while watching the instructor put the horses through their paces. Opening times vary, so ring ahead.
reviewed
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C
Oosterpark
Oosterpark was laid out in 1891 to accommodate the nouveau riche diamond traders who found their fortunes in the South African mines, and it still has an elegant, rambling feel. On the south side, look for two monuments: one commemorates the abolition of slavery in the Netherlands in 1819; the other, De Schreeuw (the Scream), honours free speech and, more specifically, filmmaker Theo van Gogh, who was murdered at the southeast corner of the park in 2004. Another (living) monument to Van Gogh is the Spreeksteen, an open-forum ‘speakers’ corner’ established on the park’s east side in 2005 – scheduled talks (almost always in Dutch) are held on Sundays at 1.30pm.
reviewed
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D
Amstelpark
South of the ringway, in the suburb of Buitenveldert, lies the vast Amstelpark, the grounds of an international flower show in 1972. The park is a paradise for kids, with a petting zoo, minigolf, pony rides and a playground. In summer a miniature train chugs its way around the park. Other attractions include rose and rhododendron gardens, and art exhibitions are held in the Glazen Huis (Glass House), the Orangerie and the Papillon Gallery. Just outside the south edge of the park you’ll see a windmill called the Riekermolen. In a field southwest of the mill you’ll find a statue of a sitting Rembrandt, who made sketches here along the riverbank. To get there, take the met…
reviewed
