Beurs van Berlage

Designed by Berlage, the most famous modern architect of the Netherlands, his Beurs (1903) was the starting point of Dutch Modern architecture. The building had a profound influence on architecture in the whole of Europe in to the 1920's, and was an inspiration for famous architects and artists like Rietveld, Oud and Mies van der Rohe.

The Beurs (Beurs is the Dutch word for Exchange, this building was the 3rd Merchants Exchange of Amsterdam) nowadays is a prestigious center for culture, conferences and events. In 2002 it was venue for the civil wedding of the future King of the Netherlands, Crownprince William Alexander and Princess Maxima. In the impressive Main Hall, expositions on Design and Architecture are being organised on a regular basis, do check the website for the agenda.

The Beurs van Berlage also houses a very pretty Café, in the former main entrance on Beursplein (Exchange-Square), at the south-side of the building. It serves good lunches and italian coffees in splendid Dutch Art Nouveau-surroundings. Three mozaics by Jan Toorop, depicting past, present and future of society, dominate the Café. March-October the Café offers a large terrace on the square.