Netherlands Amsterdam Amsterdam Museum

Resistance Museum

About

Located in the historic Plancius building near Artis Zoo, the Resistance Museum Amsterdam (Verzetsmuseum) offers a compelling look into Dutch life under Nazi occupation during World War II. Through immersive exhibits and personal stories, the museum explores how ordinary citizens responded to oppression—whether by resisting, adapting, or collaborating. Visitors encounter authentic artifacts like ration cards, clandestine radios, and forged documents, all set within evocative reconstructions of wartime streets. The museum’s recent renovation has modernized its displays, enhancing its emotional impact and accessibility. A standout feature is Verzetsmuseum Junior, which presents the war through the eyes of four children, making history relatable for younger audiences. Unlike the Anne Frank House, which focuses on one family’s experience, the Resistance Museum offers a broader, nuanced perspective on the moral dilemmas and daily struggles faced by the Dutch population. It’s a powerful and thought-provoking destination that deepens understanding of resistance, courage, and survival.

Amsterdam Netherlands

Location

The Resistance Museum (Verzetsmuseum) in Amsterdam is located at Plantage Kerklaan 61, in the historic and culturally rich Plantage district, an area known as a developing museum quarter. The museum stands diagonally across from the main entrance to Artis Zoo and is near other significant sites including the Jewish Museum, the National Holocaust Museum, the Maritime Museum, and the science center Nemo. This central location makes it very accessible by public transport and an integral part of exploring Amsterdam's heritage. Nearby, visitors can enjoy the green oasis of Artis Zoo, explore further historical perspectives at the Jewish Museum, or visit the vibrant Nemo Science Museum for family-friendly activities. The area also includes cafés and restaurants for relaxation, making the district an engaging cultural hub for visitors interested in history, tolerance, and Dutch wartime resilience. The museum is open daily (hours vary slightly on weekends) and is well suited for reflective, educational visits within Amsterdam’s museum neighborhood.