Viewpoint on the Opera

By crossing this beautiful bridge near the opera house, we are now entering Waterlooplein, the former Jewish quarter of the city. Here, you'll find the country’s oldest flea market, the house where Rembrandt used to live, and the National Opera House, standing prominently before you. Inaugurated in 1986, the opera house presents dramatic musical performances in a grand hall that can welcome over 1,600 people. You are now standing on a historic bridge over the Amstel River—the very river that, over the centuries, gave its name to the capital, Amsterdam, which originally meant 'the dam on the Amstel. Nicknamed the Blue Bridge (Blauwbrug), in reference to its original color, this richly decorated structure has crowns atop its columns and sculpted fish motifs, reminiscent of ship prows—an insight on the city's maritime heritage.