Amsterdam’s enchanting canals and historic architecture may steal the spotlight, but the city’s remarkable collection of statues deserves just as much attention. As you navigate the cobblestone streets of this Dutch capital, you’ll encounter bronze figures and stone monuments that tell captivating stories of resistance, creativity, and the unique liberal spirit that defines Amsterdam.
Having explored Amsterdam’s statues for over a decade, I’ve discovered that these silent storytellers offer something many tourists miss: a deeper connection to the city’s soul. This guide reveals the most fascinating statues in Amsterdam and insider tips for creating a meaningful statue walking tour experience.
Quick Guide: Amsterdam’s Must-See Statues
| Statue | Location | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Anne Frank | Westermarkt | Poignant tribute to a powerful symbol of hope |
| Rembrandt | Rembrandtplein | The city’s oldest statue surrounded by 3D Night Watch figures |
| Belle | Oudekerksplein | World’s first monument honoring sex workers |
| Het Lieverdje | Spui Square | Charming “Little Darling” with surprising countercultural history |
| National Monument | Dam Square | A mysterious half-emerged musician appearing from the floor |
| De Dokwerker | Jonas Daniël Meijerplein | Powerful symbol of resistance during WWII |
| Homomonument | Westermarkt | Groundbreaking LGBTQ+ memorial with unique triangular design |
| De Schreeuw | Oosterpark | Freedom of speech memorial with striking profile design |
| The Violinist | Stopera | The city’s oldest statue is surrounded by 3D Night Watch figures |
| Blauw Jan | Leidseplein | Playful bronze iguanas scattered across the square |
- Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds for statue viewing.
- Insider tip: Most statues are within a compact area, making it possible to see most on foot in a single day. Start at Dam Square and work your way out.
1. Anne Frank Statue: A Symbol of Hope Despite Tragedy
Location: Westermarkt, outside the Westerkerk (outdoor, free to visit)
Created by: Mari Andriessen (1977)
Standing in the shadow of the Westerkerk steps from the Anne Frank House, this life-size bronze statue depicts the young diarist gazing forward with quiet determination. Having visited multiple times across different seasons, I’ve noticed how the changing light affects the statue’s appearance – early morning provides the most contemplative atmosphere, with fewer crowds.
What makes this statue particularly moving is its thoughtful placement. Anne could see the Westerkerk tower from her hiding place and mentioned the church bells in her diary. The statue serves as a bridge between her story and visitors who come to honor her memory.
“The statue’s modest size belies its emotional impact – I’ve witnessed countless visitors pause here in silent reflection before continuing their journey.”
- Planning tip: The Anne Frank House requires booking (€16 for adults, €8 for ages 10-17), but the statue is freely accessible 24/7. Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds or around dusk, when subtle lighting enhances the statue’s poignancy.
- Nearest accommodations: The Pulitzer Amsterdam offers luxurious canal-side accommodations within walking distance, while Hotel Clemens provides more budget-friendly options nearby.
2. Rembrandt Monument: The Golden Age Master on His Square
Location: Rembrandtplein (central public square)
Created by: Louis Royer (1852)
As Amsterdam’s oldest surviving public statue, the Rembrandt Monument has watched over its namesake square for over 170 years. The cast-iron figure shows the master painter in period attire, stylus and palette in hand, overlooking the lively square that bears his name.
What truly sets this statue experience apart is the surrounding bronze figures installed in 2006 – life-sized three-dimensional recreations of the characters from Rembrandt’s famous painting “The Night Watch.” These figures create an interactive experience where visitors can literally walk into the painting.
The contrast between the traditional monument and these modern, playful additions perfectly captures Amsterdam’s blend of reverence for history and contemporary creativity.
- Local insight: Visit in the evening when the square’s cafés come alive. Grab a drink at Café Schiller – a historic art nouveau establishment frequented by artists and writers since 1888.
- Photography tip: For the best photos without crowds, arrive before 9am. The morning light also creates beautiful shadows across the Night Watch figures.
3. Belle: Honoring Sex Workers in the Red Light District
Location: Oudekerksplein, Red Light District
Created by: Els Rijerse (2007)
Standing confidently in a doorway with hands on her hips, Belle is believed to be the world’s first monument dedicated to sex workers. The plaque at her feet reads “Respect sex workers all over the world,” underlining her empowering message.
Many visitors miss Belle’s strategic positioning—she directly faces the Oude Kerk (Old Church), Amsterdam’s oldest building. This deliberate placement creates a thought-provoking dialogue between the sacred and the profession that has defined this neighborhood for centuries.
- Insider perspective: Having spoken with local guides who specialize in Red Light District tours, I’ve learned that many sex workers view Belle as an important symbol of dignity in an often stigmatized profession. The statue has become a meeting point for rights activists and a place where respect is shown through small offerings left at its base.
- Ethical tourism note: When photographing in this area, remember that taking pictures of the actual workers in their windows is strictly prohibited and considered highly disrespectful.
- Recommended tour: For deeper context, consider the Red Light District Tour by Locals (€35), which provides respectful, educational insights about the neighborhood’s history and current realities.
4. Het Lieverdje: The Little Darling with Revolutionary Impact
Location: Spui Square
Created by: Carel Kneulman (bronze version 1960)
Don’t let Het Lieverdje’s diminutive size fool you – this cheeky bronze boy had an outsized influence on Amsterdam’s cultural history. Standing with hands on hips, he represents the mischievous, good-hearted Amsterdam street urchin.
What transforms this seemingly innocent statue from charming to culturally significant is its unexpected role in Amsterdam’s counterculture movement. After being donated by a tobacco company in 1960, Het Lieverdje became the gathering point for the anti-establishment Provo movement, which held “happenings” around the statue throughout the mid-1960s. The irony of a corporate-sponsored statue becoming the focal point for anti-consumerist protest exemplifies Amsterdam’s complex relationship with authority and capitalism.
- Timing recommendation: Visit on Fridays when the book market fills Spui Square, creating a vibrant atmosphere that connects to the area’s intellectual history.
- Hidden gem: After seeing Het Lieverdje, duck into the nearby Begijnhof – a hidden courtyard dating back to the 14th century that offers a tranquil respite from the busy streets.
See Related: Amsterdam Travel Tips: Discover Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
5. National Monument: Remembrance at the Heart of Amsterdam
Location: Dam Square
Created by: J.J.P. Oud (architect) and John Rädecker (sculptor), completed in 1956
Towering 22 meters above Dam Square, the National Monument is Amsterdam’s most significant memorial. This pristine white travertine pillar commemorates victims of World War II and subsequent armed conflicts, standing at the center of Dutch national identity.
The monument’s power lies in its multilayered symbolism: chained male figures represent oppression, two resistance fighters symbolize different aspects of the Dutch resistance, and above them, a maternal figure with a child represents victory and a new life. Lions, traditional symbols of the Netherlands, guard the front.
Most visitors miss the semicircular wall behind the monument, which contains soil from execution grounds and war cemeteries from each Dutch province—a powerful physical connection to the memorialized events.
- Cultural significance: On May 4th (National Remembrance Day), the nation observes two minutes of silence at 8 p.m., with the main ceremony held at this monument. If you’re visiting during this time, witnessing this profound moment of national unity is unforgettable.
- Timing tip: Dam Square can be extremely crowded during peak hours. For a more contemplative experience, visit before 10 a.m. or after 7 p.m. when the evening light dramatically affects the monument’s white stone.
6. De Dokwerker: The Dockworker Who Defied Nazis
Location: Jonas Daniël Meijerplein, in the old Jewish Quarter
Created by: Mari Andriessen (1952)
This powerful bronze statue depicts a dockworker standing resolutely with clenched hands. What makes this monument extraordinary is the event it commemorates – the February Strike of 1941, when thousands of non-Jewish Dutch citizens, led by dockworkers, staged a general strike to protest the persecution of their Jewish neighbors.
This was the only mass protest against the deportation of Jews organized by non-Jews in Nazi-occupied Europe. The statue’s significance deepens when you understand it stands in what was once the heart of Amsterdam’s Jewish neighborhood, now largely emptied by the Holocaust.
Every February 25th, Amsterdammers gather here to lay wreaths and remember this courageous act of solidarity. The simple, working-class figure represents ordinary people choosing extraordinary courage in history’s darkest hour.
- Historical context: From this spot, walk about 15 minutes to the Dutch Resistance Museum (€12) for deeper insights into the Dutch experience during WWII.
- Local connection: The coffee shop diagonally opposite the statue, Coffeeshop The Dokwerker, is named after this monument and offers a place to sit and reflect (whether or not you partake in their primary offerings).
7. Homomonument: Triangles of LGBTQ+ Remembrance
Location: Westermarkt, near the Westerkerk
Created by: Karin Daan (1987)
Unlike traditional statue memorials, the Homomonument takes a conceptual approach with three interconnected pink granite triangles – a direct reference to the pink triangles homosexual individuals were forced to wear in Nazi concentration camps.
What makes this monument architecturally fascinating is how it integrates with its surroundings: one triangle points toward the National War Memorial, another toward the Anne Frank House, and the third extends over the Keizersgracht Canal. This design creates both a place of commemoration and a living public space.
As the world’s first memorial dedicated to LGBTQ+ individuals persecuted because of their sexuality, it represents Amsterdam’s pioneering role in LGBTQ+ rights. The monument hosts ceremonies during Pride events and serves as a gathering place for reflection throughout the year.
- Participatory experience: During summer, the canal-side triangle becomes a small stage for performances, while in winter, when the canals freeze, it becomes part of an ice skating route, transforming remembrance into a celebration of life.
- Nearby refreshment: After visiting, stop at Café ‘t Smalle, a charming brown café overlooking the Egelantiersgracht canal that offers traditional Dutch jenever (gin) and beer in a historic setting.
8. De Schreeuw: A Cry for Freedom of Expression
Location: Oosterpark
Created by: Jeroen Henneman (2007)
Standing in the expansive Oosterpark, “De Schreeuw” (The Scream) is a tall, stainless steel sculpture depicting a stylized profile of a face mid-scream. This striking monument commemorates filmmaker Theo van Gogh, who was murdered near this location in 2004 for his controversial works.
The silhouette design works brilliantly from different angles – appearing almost two-dimensional from some perspectives but with surprising depth from others. The open mouth directed toward the sky creates a powerful visual metaphor for free expression.
What many visitors don’t realize is that the monument stands very close to the actual spot where the assassination occurred, adding layers of meaning to its location within this otherwise peaceful park setting.
- Contextual visit: To better understand Dutch perspectives on free speech, combine your visit with the nearby Tropenmuseum (€16), which explores colonial history and contemporary social issues through thought-provoking exhibitions.
- Reflective moment: The park benches near the statue offer a perfect spot for quiet contemplation. Early evening here is particularly atmospheric when the statue catches the fading light.
9. The Violinist: Mystery Musician Emerges from the Floor
Location: In the foyer of the Stopera (City Hall/Music Theatre) at Waterlooplein
Created by: Anonymous artist (installed at current location 1991)
One of Amsterdam’s most whimsical statues, De Violist (The Violinist) depicts a man half-emerged from the floor, playing a violin. What makes this sculpture particularly intriguing is its mysterious origin – it first appeared anonymously in 1982 and was later moved to the Stopera’s entrance.
The artist’s identity remained unknown for years, adding a layer of urban legend to this playful piece. The city eventually revealed that it was created by an amateur artist working in secret—a beautiful testament to Amsterdam’s appreciation for spontaneous creative expression.
Though technically indoors, the statue is visible from street level through the Stopera’s glass walls, creating an interesting interplay between public and institutional space.
- Visitor experience: Step inside the impressive Stopera building (free entry to the foyer) to examine the statue up close. The building, which houses both City Hall and the Dutch National Opera & Ballet, is worth exploring for its modern architecture.
- Cultural pairing: Check the Dutch National Opera & Ballet schedule for performances during your visit. Experience a world-class show in this venue, which adds another dimension to understanding Amsterdam’s cultural landscape.
10. Blauw Jan: A Reptilian Invasion in the City Center
Location: Kleine-Gartmanplantsoen (next to Leidseplein)
Created by: Hans van Houwelingen (1994)
Perhaps Amsterdam’s most unexpected statue installation, Blauw Jan features dozens of life-sized bronze iguanas and lizards lounging in the grass near the bustling Leidseplein. These surprisingly realistic reptiles often startle passersby who mistake them for real animals at first glance.
“Blauw Jan” refers to a 17th-century Amsterdam innkeeper who kept exotic animals, essentially running one of the city’s first zoos. This historical connection adds depth to what might seem like a whimsical installation.
Recently reinstalled after area renovations, these creatures delight children and photography enthusiasts looking for unique Amsterdam shots.
- Photography tip: Visit on sunny days when the contrast between the bronze reptiles and green grass is most striking. Get down low for eye-level shots that make the lizards appear more lifelike.
- Family recommendation: This installation is particularly engaging for children, who enjoy discovering the different reptiles scattered throughout the area. Combine with a visit to the nearby Amsterdam Dungeon (€24.50) for a kid-friendly but slightly spooky experience.
See Related: Iconic Amsterdam Canals: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Waterways
11. Queen Wilhelmina: Royal Elegance on Horseback
Location: Rokin at Langebrugsteeg
Created by: Theresia van der Pant (1972)
This dynamic bronze sculpture depicts Queen Wilhelmina confidently on horseback, wearing her characteristic broad-brimmed hat. As Amsterdam’s only equestrian statue, it stands out for its subject and style.
Queen Wilhelmina ruled the Netherlands for nearly 58 years (1890-1948), including during both World Wars. Her leadership during WWII, when she became a symbol of Dutch resistance while in exile, earned her immense respect from her people.
Many visitors don’t appreciate the significance of a female sculptor creating this monument – Theresia van der Pant was one of the few prominent female sculptors of her time, adding another layer of historical importance to this statue.
- Historical context: Wilhelmina’s statue stands along Rokin, once a canal filled in to create this major thoroughfare. It exemplifies how Amsterdam has evolved while honoring its past.
- Shopping tip: After visiting the statue, explore the Rokin Plaza for high-end shopping or wander the 9 Streets (De 9 Straatjes) district for unique boutiques and vintage finds.
12. Spinoza: The Philosopher with a Symbolic Cloak
Location: Zwanenburgwal canal embankment, near Waterlooplein
Created by: Nicolas Dings (2008)
This striking bronze statue honors Baruch Spinoza (1632-1677), one of Amsterdam’s greatest philosophers. What makes this statue artistically unique is Spinoza’s cloak, covered with bronze birds and roses – green parakeets mingle with modest sparrows, symbolizing the city’s diversity and the coexistence of the exotic and the local.
Look closely at the pedestal to spot an icosahedron (a 20-sided geometric shape), referencing Spinoza’s geometric philosophical method. The inscription quotes his thoughts on freedom and reason, core tenets of his revolutionary thinking.
The statue stands near where Spinoza lived and worked as a lens grinder, connecting his physical presence to the city’s intellectual heritage.
- Philosophical reflection: Take a moment to sit by the canal and contemplate the role of free thought in shaping Amsterdam’s identity. Spinoza was excommunicated from his religious community for his radical ideas, but found a home in Amsterdam’s tolerant atmosphere.
- Literary connection: Continue your intellectual journey at the nearby Waterlooplein Market, where second-hand book stalls often feature philosophical works and Dutch literature.
13. Multatuli: The Literary Crusader for Justice
Location: Torensluis bridge over the Singel canal
Created by: Hans Bayens (1987)
Overlooking the Singel canal stands the contemplative figure of Multatuli (pen name of Eduard Douwes Dekker), one of the Netherlands’ most influential authors. His 1860 novel “Max Havelaar” exposed colonial abuses in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and became a key text in Dutch literature.
The statue’s location is significant – it is near his former home and set on Amsterdam’s widest bridge (Torensluis), symbolically giving the author a broad stage. The statue shows him in thought, wrapped in an overcoat that suggests both the weight of his conscience and his protection against societal criticism.
- Literary significance: This statue represents more than just a writer; it embodies the Dutch literary tradition of social critique that continues to influence the nation’s culture and politics today.
- Hidden history: The bridge where Multatuli stands was once part of a tower that served as a city prison. Look for the remains of prison cells beneath the bridge – a fitting location for a writer who fought against oppression.
- Local experience: Visit Café De Doelen nearby, a historic establishment where Multatuli might have sipped coffee while developing his revolutionary ideas.
14. Mama Baranka: Standing Against Racism in Vondelpark
Location: Vondelpark, near the north end
Created by: Nelson Carrilho (1984)
Mama Baranka (Papiamento for “Mother Earth” or “Mother Rock”) stands firmly with feet on the ground – a textured maternal figure symbolizing strength and vigilance. This powerful bronze and concrete sculpture was the first anti-racism monument in Amsterdam’s public space, created in response to the tragic killing of Kerwin Duinmeijer, a 15-year-old victim of a racist attack in 1983.
The artist Nelson Carrilho (himself from Curaçao) incorporated Afro-Caribbean cultural elements into the statue. Each August 20th, people gather here to honor Kerwin’s memory and reflect on ongoing struggles against discrimination.
- Cultural significance: This statue represents Amsterdam’s acknowledgment of its multicultural reality and the challenges that come with it – a progressive statement for its time that still resonates today.
- Respectful visit: When visiting, take a moment to read about Kerwin’s story on the plaque. Many locals leave flowers or small tokens, especially around the anniversary of his death.
- Park experience: After visiting Mama Baranka, explore more of Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s most beloved green space. The Blue Tea House offers a perfect refresh spot with views of the park’s scenery.
15. Picasso’s Fish: Modern Art in Park Setting
Location: Vondelpark, south end
Created by: Pablo Picasso (1965)
A large white abstract figure by Pablo Picasso is rising from a grassy field in Vondelpark. Though officially titled “Figure Découpée” (The Bird), locals affectionately call it “het Visje” (the little fish) due to its fish-like appearance. This interpretation contradicts the artist’s intention but has become part of Amsterdam folklore.
This concrete sculpture, donated to the city in 1965 for the park’s centennial, features lines and shapes reminiscent of Picasso’s Cubist designs. What makes this statue experience unique is the rare opportunity to interact with a Picasso work in a casual park setting – you can touch it, sit near it, and view it from multiple angles without museum barriers.
- Art appreciation tip: Circle the sculpture completely. Its form changes dramatically depending on your viewpoint, demonstrating Picasso’s genius for playing with perspective.
- Picnic recommendation: Bring supplies from the Albert Cuyp Market for a picnic near the sculpture – a quintessential Amsterdam experience combining art, nature, and local flavors.
Creating Your Amsterdam Statue Walking Tour
Based on my experience guiding friends and family through Amsterdam, I’ve designed the ideal walking route that maximizes your time while minimizing backtracking:
One-Day Itinerary: Central Amsterdam Statues
- Morning (9:00-12:00): Start at Dam Square (National Monument) → Rokin (Queen Wilhelmina) → Spui (Het Lieverdje) → Rembrandtplein (Rembrandt & Night Watch figures).
- Lunch Break (12:00-13:30): Enjoy lunch at Café de Jaren with canal views.
- Afternoon (13:30-17:00): Continue to Stopera (The Violinist) → Zwanenburgwal (Spinoza) → Red Light District (Belle & Bronze Breast) → Oude Kerk area → Westermarkt (Anne Frank Statue & Homomonument).
- Evening Option: End with dinner at Restaurant Greetje for traditional Dutch cuisine with a modern twist.
Transportation & Practicalities
Getting around: Amsterdam’s compact center makes walking ideal for exploring these statues. For those with mobility concerns, the GVB public transportation offers excellent tram connections between major points (€8.50 for a day pass).
Where to stay: For statue enthusiasts, I recommend accommodations near Dam Square or the Jordaan area for central access:
- Luxury: Hotel TwentySeven (from €350/night)
- Mid-range: Hotel Estherea (from €200/night)
- Budget: Shelter Jordan Christian Hostel (from €40/night)
Guided options: While self-guided exploration allows flexibility, the Amsterdam Urban Art & Culture Tour (€49) provides expert commentary on these statues alongside street art and cultural insights.
See Related: Secret Spots in Amsterdam for Breathtaking Photography
Beyond the Center: Statue Excursions
If you have extra time, venture beyond central Amsterdam to discover these additional statue gems:
- Vondelpark Sculptures: Combine visits to Joost van den Vondel, Mama Baranka, and Picasso’s Fish sculptures while enjoying Amsterdam’s most famous park.
- Eastern Connections: Visit De Schreeuw in Oosterpark, then continue to the Johnny Jordaanplein in the Jordaan district to see statues of beloved local musicians.
- Archaeological Museum Garden: The Allard Pierson Museum garden contains classical sculptures that offer a different perspective from Amsterdam’s modern pieces.
Seasonal Considerations
Amsterdam’s statues tell different stories across the seasons:
- Spring: Anne Frank Statue surrounded by tulips and blossoms
- Summer: Lively atmosphere around Rembrandt with street performers
- Fall: Beautiful backdrop of autumn leaves for the Vondelpark statues
- Winter: Special holiday lighting near the National Monument
Weather note: Amsterdam’s famously unpredictable weather means always carrying a light raincoat. During winter (November-February), daylight hours are limited (9:00-16:30), so plan your statue tour accordingly.
Amsterdam’s statues aren’t just decorative elements but powerful storytelling devices that reveal the city’s values: tolerance, artistic expression, remembrance, and social justice. By exploring these bronze and stone figures, you’ll connect with Amsterdam on a deeper level than most visitors ever experience.
Have you visited any of these Amsterdam statues? Which ones spoke to you most deeply? Share your experiences in the comments below.
This article was last updated on March 25, 2025, to reflect current information about Amsterdam’s statues, accessibility, and nearby attractions.