September 10, 2009
Amsterdam’s Unique Museums
Amsterdam offers an abundance of museums. You may be familiar with the world famous Van Gogh Museum, the Rembrandthuis or the just recently opened Hermitage, but did you know that Amsterdam is also home to museums for handbags, vodka and cats? Experience a different side of Amsterdam’s artistic expression.
Museum of Bags and Purses
Handbags were first created in the 16th century and continue to be the quintessential fashion accessory to outfits today. The Tassen Museum Hendrikje holds an incredible collection of over 4,000 handbags and purses, and is considered one of the best fashion museums in the world. From the handbag’s first entry onto the fashion scene to its most recent incarnations, the Tassen Museum Hendrikje documents how these accessories have evolved over time.
Vodka Museum
While sipping your vodka cocktail, do you stop to think about that famous liquor’s origin? Satisfy your curiosity of vodka’s history at the first and only European museum dedicated to vodka, the Vodka Museum Amsterdam. Educate your mind and tastebuds with a guided tour and the opportunity to concoct your own vodka beverage.
Diamond Museum
Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, and where better to admire their beauty than in one of the diamond trading capitals of the world: Amsterdam. The Diamant Museum explores the extensive journey of these shiny minerals from its creation three billion years ago to its placement on your finger. The museum features several permanent displays, and is currently featuring a special exhibitions of royal crowns.
Kattenkabinet Museum
Animal and art lovers will find the best of both worlds at the Kattenkabinet Museum. From paintings to sculpture, photography and printed mint, cats are at the center of each featured exhibit. The museum showcases collections from world famous painters like Picasso to local icons, such as Henriëtte Ronner-Knip.
Photo credit: Van Gogh Museum, Jan.Tito
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