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Rembrandt Monument

About

Standing proudly in Rembrandtplein, the Rembrandt Monument is Amsterdam’s oldest public statue and a tribute to the city’s most celebrated artist, Rembrandt van Rijn. Unveiled in 1852 and sculpted by Louis Royer, the bronze figure captures the painter in contemplative pose, palette in hand, as if ready to immortalize the world around him. The square itself, once a bustling butter market, was renamed in Rembrandt’s honor and has since become a lively cultural hub. In 2006, the monument gained a dramatic enhancement with the addition of 22 bronze figures recreating Rembrandt’s iconic painting “The Night Watch,” transforming the space into a three-dimensional tableau. Though these statues were later removed, the central figure remains a powerful symbol of Dutch artistic heritage. Surrounded by cafés, nightlife, and historic architecture, the monument invites visitors to reflect on the legacy of a master whose influence still shapes the city’s creative spirit.

Amsterdam Netherlands

Location

The Rembrandt Monument is located in Rembrandtplein, a vibrant square in Amsterdam's city center. This iconic statue, crafted by Louis Royer, honors the city's most famous painter, Rembrandt van Rijn. The monument features Rembrandt standing tall with a palette and brushes, surrounded by smaller bronze statues of characters from his famous painting, "The Night Watch". Nearby attractions include the lively Rembrandtplein, with its many cafes, restaurants, and bars, as well as the nearby Hermitage Amsterdam and the Jewish Historical Museum. Visitors can also explore the adjacent Thorbeckeplein and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding canals. The monument is easily accessible by tram (lines 4, 9, or 14) or on foot from Dam Square.

Rembrandt Monument

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