This monument was erected after WWII to commemorate the horrible things that happened during that period of time. It was designed by J.J.P. Oud and John Rädecker (who died before the official revelation of the monument and his sons took over his work to finish it in time). Each year on the 4th of May, people gather here to remember the losses they suffered as a nation.
The monument consists of a 22 m tall pillar and several sculptures, representing the Dutch resistance, loyalty, suffering, but also victory and peace. It also contains 7 urns from WWII execution grounds and cemeteries.
In the 1960s and 1970s, it was often visited by hippies, who slept here during the night to celebrate liberty.
This monument is a must-see both for history lovers and ordinary people, to make sure this period of time is adequately acknowledged and never forgotten.
Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Monument_(Amsterdam)
Address Dam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Coordinates 52°22'22.139" N 4°53'37.306" E
