Het Stadsarchief

Welcome to the Amsterdam Archive, a true treasure trove of the city. Housed in the iconic de Bazel building, this impressive institute offers a wealth of historical documents and a fascinating insight into Amsterdam's past.

The Amsterdam Archive houses an impressive collection of no less than 50 kilometres of archives. Here you will find centuries-old documents, photographs, maps and other valuable resources that provide a vivid representation of Amsterdam's development through time. Whether you are looking for genealogical information, historical facts or are just a curious explorer, the archives offer something for everyone.

Let's dive into the history of the imposing building that houses the archive: de Bazel. Previously, this majestic building served as the headquarters of the Nederlandsche Handel-Maatschappij and later as the ABN AMRO Bank. Designed in the expressionist style by architect Karel de Bazel, the building exudes timeless elegance and is a true architectural gem.

The move of the archives to de Bazel was one of the biggest in Amsterdam's history. Previously, the archives were spread across several locations, including the Raadhuis van Nieuwer Amstel (1914-2007) and the Waag (1888-1914). The centralisation of these valuable resources in the Basel created a centre of knowledge and heritage that remains vibrant and accessible to this day.

A special highlight of the archive can be found in the Basel's basement: the former vault. It now houses a unique exhibition space, where visitors can descend into the depths of history. The vault houses not only valuable objects, but also the stories and secrets of the past, presented in a compelling way.

However, the Amsterdam Archive is more than just a repository of historical documents. It is a vibrant hub of activities and events. Here you can take part in workshops, lectures and tours that will give you an in-depth understanding of the city and its heritage. Whether you are a researcher, student, art lover or just curious about the past, there is always something to discover and experience at the Amsterdam Archive.