The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is a must-visit; it is the iconic Dutch art and history museum.With a collection of over 800 years, from mediaeval masterpieces to contemporary Dutch design, this world-famous institution is home to an awe-inspiring collection. Famous works such as Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch” and Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid” are joined by lesser-known treasures that tell the story of the rich cultural heritage of the Netherlands as you wander through its halls. The Rijksmuseum houses over a million objects and is a fascinating trip through time, art and Dutch identity. If you are an art enthusiast or just curious about history, this museum is an experience you don’t want to miss.
About Rijksmuseum
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The Rijksmuseum was founded in 1798 in The Hague, but in 1808, the Rijksmuseum was moved to Amsterdam, first to the Royal Palace and then to the Trippenhuis. Pierre Cuypers’ 1885 design for the iconic main building has been familiar on the Amsterdam skyline ever since. Reopened in 2013 with renewed splendour after a decade-long renovation costing a staggering €375 million, it was patronised by Queen Beatrix. By undergoing this transformation, it became the premier museum in The Netherlands and one of the most visited museums in the Netherlands, reaching over 2 million art fans a year.
The museum has 1 million objects in the collection, 8,000 of which are on display at any time. Masterpieces by Rembrandt, Frans Hals, Johannes Vermeer, and other Dutch Golden Age luminaries are highlighted. A more minor but significant collection from the Asian continent is also on display at a dedicated Asian pavilion.
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History Of Rijksmuseum
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The Rijksmuseum’s collection, accumulated over 200 years, did not come from a royal collection but from modest acquisitions. When the collection was first housed in five rooms at Huis ten Bosch palace in The Hague, it did not include works by such renowned Dutch artists as Rembrandt, Vermeer and Hals. The stadholder’s collection, taken by Napoleon to Paris, was returned to the Netherlands but placed in the Mauritshuis. A design competition for a new building was held in 1863, but no suitable entries presented themselves. A second contest was won in 1876 by Pierre Cuypers, combining Gothic and Renaissance elements in his design. Completed in 1885, the building was covered in references to Dutch art history.
The museum grew over time, and in 1906, The Night Watch Hall was rebuilt. The interior decorations were restored, and the collection was reorganised when the main building closed for renovation in 2003 and reopened in 2013. The architects Cruz and Ortiz headed the renovation, which took a decade and cost €375 million. In 2014, the museum’s first major photography exhibition and modern collections were shown in the reopened Philips Wing.
Architecture Of The Rijksmuseum
Pierre Cuypers’s design for the Rijksmuseum, erected in 1885, elegantly combines the Gothic and Renaissance styles. The grand façade, with its intricate sculptures and ornate detailing, strikes first. The museum consists of a series of grand galleries, with elegant archways linking them and big stained-glass windows welcoming light through the corridors.
The central atrium, a highlight of the recent renovation, seamlessly merges the old with the new. It is a light-filled space that is the heart of the museum. Along with huge art collections, this architectural masterpiece is also an abode to the Netherlands’ heritage.
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Collection At Rijksmuseum
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The Rijksmuseum’s collection is vast, comprising over 1 million objects spanning arts, crafts, and history from 1200 to 2000. Of these, around 8,000 are currently displayed in the museum. The collection is particularly notable for its extensive Dutch Golden Age paintings, featuring over 2,000 works by celebrated artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, Frans Hals, Jan Steen, and Jacob van Ruisdael.
Additionally, the museum has a dedicated Asian pavilion for its more minor but significant Asian collection. Unique artefacts include the royal crest from HMS Royal Charles, the Hartog plate, and the FK35 Bantam biplane. The museum also offers digital access to its collection, with over 700,000 high-resolution images available for free through its Rijksstudio platform.
Rijksmuseum Entrance Fees And Timings
The Rijksmuseum charges an entrance fee of €21 for adults over 19, while admission is free for children aged 18 and under. Visitors with an I Amsterdam card receive free entry. Tickets must be booked for a specific date and time, and visitors should arrive at least 10 minutes before their time slot.
The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last admission at 4:30 p.m. The museum gardens, shop, and café are open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visitors may encounter two queues: one for tickets and another for entry.
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How To Reach?
The Rijksmuseum is centrally located in Amsterdam, making it accessible via several modes of transport. Below are the best ways to reach the museum:
By Air
From Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, take a train to Amsterdam Central Station, which takes about 15-20 minutes. From there, you can walk or take a tram to the Rijksmuseum. Taxis are also available at the airport and can get you to the museum in about 15 minutes, traffic permitting.
By Rail
The Rijksmuseum is easily accessible from Amsterdam Central Station. It’s a short walk from there, or you can hop on tram lines 2, 5, or 12, which stop nearby. Trains from other major Dutch cities, like Utrecht and Rotterdam, also arrive at Amsterdam Centraal.
By Bus
Within Amsterdam, several bus lines, such as 37, 52, 53, 54, 155, and 357, stop near the Rijksmuseum. The closest bus stop is Ruysdaelkade, just a minute’s walk from the museum. Buses from other parts of Amsterdam and surrounding areas can drop you off at critical stops like Leidseplein or Overtoom, making it a short walk to the museum.
Things To Keep In Mind While Visiting Rijksmuseum
Visiting the Rijksmuseum is a treat for the senses, but a little preparation can ensure you make the most of your experience. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Book Tickets in Advance: Book your tickets online ahead of time to avoid long queues.
Opening Hours: The museum is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Plan your visit accordingly.
Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the exhibits.
Peak Hours: The museum tends to be busiest in the late morning and early afternoon. Visit early or later in the day for a quieter experience.
Bag Policy: Large bags and backpacks are not allowed in the galleries. Use the free cloakroom services.
Photography: Non-flash photography is allowed, but be mindful of other visitors and the artwork.
Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible and offers free entrance for companions of disabled visitors.
Food and Drink: The museum has cafes and restaurants, but you can also bring snacks for a break in the nearby Museumplein Park.
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The Rijksmuseum stands as a testament to the rich artistic heritage of the Netherlands, offering visitors an unparalleled journey through Dutch history and culture. From Rembrandt’s masterpieces to intricate Delftware, the museum’s vast collection spans centuries of creativity and innovation. Ready to immerse yourself in this treasure trove of Dutch art and history? Don’t just dream about it – make it a reality! Book your trip to Amsterdam today and prepare for an unforgettable encounter with some of the world’s most celebrated masterpieces. The Rijksmuseum awaits, ready to captivate your imagination and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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Cover Image Credit : Trougnouf (Benoit Brummer) for Wikipedia
Frequently Asked Questions About Rijksmuseum
Why is Rijksmuseum famous?
The Rijksmuseum is renowned for its vast collection of Dutch Golden Age art, including masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer, as well as its impressive architecture and historical significance.
Is the Van Gogh or Rijksmuseum better?
The Van Gogh Museum offers an intimate look at Van Gogh's life and works, while the Rijksmuseum provides a broader exploration of Dutch art and history.
Is Rijksmuseum worth visiting?
Absolutely, with its extensive collection, beautiful architecture, and engaging exhibits, the Rijksmuseum is a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.
What is the best day to go to the Rijksmuseum?
Weekdays, especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays, tend to be less crowded. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can also help avoid the busiest times.
What items are prohibited in the Rijksmuseum?
Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas are not allowed in the galleries. Flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are also prohibited to protect the artwork and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
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