Education and the arts matter.
When it comes to culture in Amsterdam, most of us are familiar with the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh museum and the Royal Palace.
But where can we go to learn about Black culture and the role Black people have played in shaping Dutch society?
Whether you want to take a tour of Amsterdam’s Black historical locations, learn about Black emancipation in the Netherlands and worldwide, or immerse yourself in art by Black creators, there are locations around the city sharing this important history.
Mini Maatje’s Editor, Amsterdam-based travel writer Lily Heaton, shares her pick of the best cultural spaces that celebrate and honour Black culture in the Netherlands.
Want to add to this collection of Black cultural spaces?
Share your suggestion in the comments section.
Black Heritage Tours
Dam Square
Since 2013 this interactive city tour (the first of its kind) explores the hidden histories of the African Diaspora throughout Amsterdam.
Black Heritage Tours Facebook Black Heritage Tours Facebook
The Black Archives
Zeeburgerdijk 19-B
This historical archive is a significant local source of Black literature, knowledge and information centred around race issues, slavery, colonisation, feminism and other social sciences.
Shot by Marcel Wogram: theblackarchives.nl theblackarchives.nl Shot by Daniel Rommens: theblackarchives.nl theblackarchives.nl
OSCAM
Bijlmerplein 110
The Open Space Contemporary Art Museum highlights creative talent through a unique cultural platform, exhibitions and events centred around art, fashion, and design.
OSCAM Facebook OSCAM Facebook OSCAM Facebook OSCAM Facebook
Nelson Mandela Park
Reigersbospad
This six-hectare recreational park has plenty of room for visitors to cycle, skate, picnic, explore nature, exercise, or even attend a seasonal festival.
Shot by Richardkiwi Tha Block Kwaku Summer Festival Facebook
National Slavery Monument
Oosterpark 9
Located in Oosterpark, this bronze statue by Surinamese artist Erwin de Vries commemorates the 1863 abolition of slavery in Dutch Antilles and Suriname, which was finally resolved a decade later.
ninsee.nl ninsee.nl ninsee.nl
Support Black-owned Amsterdam
Discover a variety of Black-owned restaurants, shops and venues across Amsterdam in Mini Maatje. You’ll find this in Journal 001.
Have a suggestion? We want to hear from you! Let us know in the comments below.
We love supporting local business and we are always on the lookout for more BIPOC-owned locations in Amsterdam and beyond.
If you’re a business owner and want to be featured, email us…
Get exploring
Want a physical copy of our first Mini Maatje map of Black-owned businesses in Amsterdam?
You’ll find it in the centre of Journal 001.
HERO IMAGE CREDIT:
BLM crowd by Steven Elbers