Amsterdam is not only known for its vibrant culture, canals, and museums but also for its long history of religious tolerance. The city has been home to a thriving Jewish community for over 370 years. However, during the Holocaust, the Jewish population of Amsterdam was devastated, with 80% of the 80,000 Jews living in the city being killed in concentration camps. Despite the horrors of the Nazi occupation, Amsterdam’s Jewish community has since rebounded, and today, around 15,000 Jewish residents call the city home.
The Jewish Quarter in Amsterdam, or Jodenbuurt, is an area rich in history and culture. Many of the buildings, synagogues, and monuments have been preserved, offering a glimpse into the Jewish way of life before and after the Holocaust. Today, the Jewish Cultural Quarter organization oversees these landmarks, ensuring they remain a testament to the resilience of the Jewish community.
Top Jewish Sites in Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s Jewish Quarter is home to several significant landmarks, museums, and memorials, all of which reflect the city’s deep connection to Jewish history. Here’s a guide to the must-see places when you visit this historically rich area.
1. The Portuguese Synagogue
Built in the late 17th century by the Sephardic Jewish community, the Portuguese Synagogue is the second oldest synagogue in Europe. It remains an active place of worship, hosting weekly Shabbat services. The synagogue’s striking architecture and rich history make it a fascinating stop. However, it’s important to note that only Jewish visitors are allowed to attend services.
2. Jewish Historical Museum
Among the many Jewish museums we’ve visited across Europe, the Jewish Historical Museum in Amsterdam stands out as our favorite. With over 11,000 artifacts, this museum provides an in-depth look into Jewish culture, religious holidays, traditions, and ceremonies. While it does touch on the Holocaust, the focus is primarily on the cultural and religious life of Jews in the Netherlands.
The museum spans four former synagogues, each offering a unique perspective on Jewish history. There is also a children’s museum, providing a fun and educational experience for younger visitors.
3. The National Holocaust Memorial – Hollandsche Schouwburg
The Hollandsche Schouwburg was once a theater, but during the Nazi occupation, it became a deportation center for Jews. Thousands of Jews were forced to gather here before being sent to concentration camps. This museum serves as a somber reminder of the atrocities that occurred, with exhibits that delve into the personal stories of those who were impacted by the Holocaust.
4. The National Holocaust Museum
Located just across from the Hollandsche Schouwburg, the National Holocaust Museum offers a deeper look into the experiences of Dutch Jews during the Nazi occupation. The building, which was once a school, became a site of resistance where Dutch fighters smuggled Jewish children out of the city. The museum is an essential stop for anyone wanting to understand the full scope of the Holocaust and the bravery of those who fought back.
5. February Protest Monument (De Dokwerker)
On February 24, 1941, the workers at the Amsterdam docks staged a protest against the Nazi occupation’s anti-Semitic policies. The protest, which began as a strike against the deportation of Jews to the concentration camp at Mauthausen, quickly spread throughout the city. Unfortunately, the Nazis responded violently, killing nine protesters and injuring many more.
The February Protest Monument, also known as De Dokwerker, honors the striking worker. The monument, created by sculptor Mari Andriessen, represents the courage of the Amsterdam community to stand up against the Nazis, despite the protest ultimately failing. Andriessen, who refused to join the Nazi-led artist union during the war, even hid several Jewish friends in his home.
Exploring Amsterdam with the I amsterdam City Card
If you plan to visit multiple museums in Amsterdam, including those in the Jewish Quarter, consider purchasing the I amsterdam City Card. This card grants you access to over 60 museums and attractions in the city, including the Jewish Historical Museum, the Portuguese Synagogue, and more. You can choose a card valid for 1 to 5 days, and it also includes free public transportation, making it a great value for visitors looking to explore all the city has to offer.
Additionally, you can pick up a self-guided walking tour map at the Jewish Historical Museum. The map offers detailed information on Jewish-owned businesses, synagogues, monuments, and other important historical sites in the Jewish Quarter.
FAQs:
Q1: How can I get the I amsterdam City Card?
You can purchase the I amsterdam City Card online or at various locations around the city. It’s available for 1, 2, 3, or 5-day durations, depending on how long you plan to explore.
Q2: What is the best time to visit the Jewish Quarter in Amsterdam?
The Jewish Quarter is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and the city is not as crowded as in the summer months.
Q3: Is the Jewish Historical Museum suitable for children?
Yes! The Jewish Historical Museum has a dedicated Children’s Museum that makes learning about Jewish culture fun and interactive for kids.
Q4: How much time should I spend in the Jewish Quarter?
To fully explore the Jewish Quarter, including the synagogues, museums, and memorials, plan for at least 3-4 hours. If you’re interested in taking a walking tour, you may want to allow additional time.
Q5: Are there guided tours available for the Jewish Quarter?
Yes, there are many guided tours available that focus on the Jewish history of Amsterdam. These tours provide in-depth knowledge of the Jewish Quarter and the experiences of the Jewish community in the city.
Amsterdam’s Jewish Quarter offers a unique and deeply moving look at a community that has endured and thrived. Whether you’re visiting the museums, exploring the synagogues, or reflecting at the Holocaust memorials, you’ll walk away with a greater understanding of the city’s rich Jewish heritage.
Conclusion: A Deep Dive into Amsterdam’s Jewish Heritage
Amsterdam’s Jewish Quarter is a living museum of Jewish history, offering visitors a chance to reflect on the past, learn about Jewish culture, and honor the memory of those who suffered during the Holocaust. From the magnificent Portuguese Synagogue to the deeply moving National Holocaust Memorial, the Jewish Quarter is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture.
While visiting these powerful sites, it’s important to remember the resilience of the Jewish community in Amsterdam, which continues to thrive today. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant history of the Jewish people or simply enjoying the cultural vibrancy of the area, Amsterdam’s Jewish Quarter will leave a lasting impression.