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Amsterdam information :attractions
Rembrandtplein Amsterdam
One of the top going-out areas of the city, the famous Rembrandt Square is amass with bars, cafes, clubs restaurants and bright lights and the area became even more vibrant recently as huge refurbishments took place to celebrate the 400th birthday of world renowned painter Rembrandt Van Rijn. One of these improvements included the errection of the Nachtwacht statues in the centre of the Rembrandtplein Park. This has to be one of the most photographed structures in Amsterdam and is certainly worth seeing at this moment, because there are plans to have it removed in the future, which is a major shame.
In the 18th Century, Rembrandtplein was known as De Botermarkt (The Butter Market) and the name only changed when Van Rijn’s statue was erected. As Amsterdam’s canal system improved, Rembrandtplein grew in rank and status.
History
Rembrandtplein was earmarked as one of the key areas for the 400th Birthday celebrations of Rembrandt Van Rijn in 2006, and this project led local businessmen and Government officials to revamp the Square and the fruits of this rehabilitation are there for all to see. Rembrandt’s famous Nachtwacht (Nightwatch) painting was transformed into a display of 3- dimensional statues which sit pride of place below the statue of Rembrandt himself. The popularity of the statues has been remarkable and they must be the most photographed structure in Amsterdam. However, it wasn’t just the placing of the Nachtwacht Statues that helped reinvigorate the area. The erection of one of Europe’s biggest
outdoor screens, special lighting around the park area, the construction of new hotels and the sheer hard work of the local businesses and building owners also played a huge part. Rather than rest on their laurels, these same building and business owners along with the City Hall have opted to continue improving the Rembrandtplein area and in the coming years, the Squar is set for even more reconstruction and yet more modern Horeca establishments will be added. One of the beauties of Rembrandtplein is that it can offer huge diversity in a small geographical area. One minute you can be sipping a drink in the stylish surroundings of a Grand Café or a traditional Dutch Bar and 10 paces later, you could be getting down to the funky beats in
a mega-discotheque or one of the many disco bars.
Likewise, you could be dining at one of the numerous superb restaurants and the next moment you could be gazing googly-eyed at the various street entertainers. Adjoining streets such as Reguliersbreestraat, Reguliersdwarsstraat and Utrechtsestraat are also brimming with entertainment venues, cafes and restaurants and with spring in the air again, the famous outdoor terraces have made their return and the Square is the perfect place to relax on a sunny day while eating or drinking.
Summing up, the area possesses everything a going-out person (young or old) requires and there’s no need for cars, taxis, trams or buses – the only transport you require is your own two feet. So, no matter what you do, make sure that at some stage during your trip to Amsterdam, you pay a visit to Rembrandtplein where culture, beauty and entertainment are all rolled into one and where boredom doesn’t exist.
Near Rembrandtplein: Flower market, Shopping Klavertoren & street, Canal cuise and Leidsestreet
St. James Gate Irish Pub
Named after the famous brewery in Dublin where Guinness is brewed, St. James's Gate is a
spacious and attractive venue,
which prides itself on quality
beverages, good food, an excellent
atmosphere and most
importantly, friendly service.
In the past couple of years, the
venue has improved dramatically
thanks to a new and refreshing
management strategy and even
the locals will admit that this
place is in the Premier League of
Amsterdam cafes and bars.
Sky Sports television can be
viewed via an excellent big screen
or the half dozen or so televisions
and other attractions include a
pool table and a full range of
English newspapers.
St. James Gate transforms into an
extra-special venue during
Christmas and New Year and is
without doubt one of the most
tastefully decorated bars in the
city during the festive period.