De Dam (Dam Square), Zaandam

Dam Square, located in the heart of Zaandam, serves as both a historical landmark and a vibrant city square. This square takes its name from the dam built across the Zaan River, which was constructed between 1288 and 1316. Initially known as "Hogendam," this structure played a vital role in the region's history and development.

The original purpose of the dam was to create a barrier in the Zaan River, which was positioned quite a distance from the existing residential areas of Oostzaan and Westzaan. In 1401, a chapel was built on the dam, reflecting its growing significance. In 1547, local authorities took a significant step by constructing a new stone lock in the dam.

As the French period unfolded, the two villages were merged into Zaandam. This transformation led to increased activity around the dam and overtoom, resulting in the development of numerous public facilities. The dam became a bustling departure point for barges, inns sprang up to accommodate travelers, and the Gemenelandshuis, a notable local building, appeared.

Today, Dam Square stands as a vital hub of entertainment and commerce in Zaandam and the surrounding Zaan region. It boasts numerous restaurants and cafes, offering a lively atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. The square is also home to various shops situated around the Gedempte canal and Westzijde, providing ample shopping opportunities. Cultural amenities, such as the Zaantheater, are located in close proximity to the square, enriching the area's cultural life.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Zaandam. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: De Dam (Dam Square)
Sight Location: Zaandam, Netherlands (See walking tours in Zaandam)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Zaandam Introduction Walking Tour

Walking Tours in Zaandam, Netherlands

Create Your Own Walk in Zaandam

Creating your own self-guided walk in Zaandam is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.

Zaandam Introduction Walking Tour

Although historically significant as such, Zaandam, a charming old town on the banks of the Zaan River in the northwestern part of the Netherlands, does not have the same level of worldwide recognition as some larger cities. Despite its close proximity to Amsterdam, Zaandam has a plethora of tourist attractions of its own, readily available for those who seek them.

The name "Zaandam"... view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles

Windmills Village Walk

Windmills Village, or Zaanse Schans, as it's known locally, is a truly unique place in the Netherlands. In this quaint location, packed to the brim with postcard-perfect wooden houses, windmills, and barns, one can easily experience what life was like in the country back in the 1850s.

Among the village's top highlights is the Museum of the Dutch Clock. Home to a stunning collection of... view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.2 Km or 0.7 Miles

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