1_DiscoverBenelux_Issue19_July_2015_Q9_Scan Magazine 1 26/06/2015 20:47 Page 37
Discover Benelux & France | Culture Trip | Royal Palace Amsterdam
ages. First there is the original collection of stunning 17th century paintings and sculptures, designed by the building’s architect Jacob van Campen. Secondly, there is the furniture, clocks and chandeliers collection amassed by Louis Bonaparte (brother of Napoleon) when he ruled as King of Holland. In 1808, he converted the building into a Royal Palace and much of the interior still dates from those years. In fact, the Empire Collection is one of the most complete and best preserved furniture collections of its kind. Lastly, there are the paintings of the Royal Collection dating from the 17th century onwards. It includes many portraits of the ancestors of the Royal Family.
Hidden stories The intended use of the building as a Town Hall is still apparent in the interior, even if it is not always obvious to a current-day beholder. To highlight the hidden messages and uncover these myths,
the palace is hosting a special exhibition starting this July called Hidden Stories. Everything inside and outside the building tells a story and this exhibition explains the meaning behind the statues and the paintings. One example is the relief of a scene from the story of Daedalus and Icarus in the Bankruptcy Chamber which signifies that pride comes before fall – a rather fitting message in a room where bankruptcy cases were dealt with. The palace is full of similar hidden messages, particularly from Greek and Roman mythology. At the time of construction these stories were much better known than nowadays. But as soon as the stories are revealed, visitors will spot them throughout the palace and start to read the building like a book. The Royal Palace Amsterdam hosts two special exhibitions yearly and is open to the public whenever it is not in use for events
or royal affairs. The palace is also where the yearly Royal Award for Modern Painting ceremony takes place, hosted by King Willem-Alexander. www.paleisamsterdam.nl
Visit the Royal Palace Amsterdam The exhibition Hidden Stories runs from 3 July to 27 September. Entrance to the palace includes a free audio guide available in eight different languages. Before your visit please go to the website to make sure the palace is open to the public that day. The Royal Palace Amsterdam also occasionally hosts gallery talks on Sundays on specific themes and offers guided tours for groups.
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