Anne Frank House, Amsterdam (must see)

The name Anne Frank is well-known throughout the Netherlands, belonging to a 13-year-old Jewish girl who, along with her family, fled their native Germany following the Nazi takeover and sought refuge in the Netherlands. Little did they expect that the Nazi terror would soon extend into neighboring countries as well.

The Anne Frank House, situated on Prinsengracht Canal, served as the hiding place for the Franks and the Van Pel family for over two years. Erected in 1635, the building had functioned as a residence, warehouse, stable, and office over the years. In 1940, Anne's father, Otto Frank, purchased it for his spice business, which soon transformed into a sanctuary from the German forces that were rounding up Jewish families and sending them to concentration camps. A visit to the Anne Frank House is a haunting, poignant, and overwhelming experience that provides insight into how the inhabitants attempted to lead their lives amid the horrors of that time.

Today, the premises have been converted into a museum that draw over a million visitors annually. A typical visit encompasses the primary part of the building, which includes the former Frank business premises, including the ground-floor warehouse and old offices.

Why You Should Visit:
The museum effectively preserves the memory of Anne and her family while also educating visitors about the Holocaust's atrocities.

Tip:
Plan your visit well in advance, and be mindful that the house has numerous stairs, and photography is not permitted inside.

Opening Hours:
Daily: 9am–10pm