The Nationaal Monument rises on Dam Square as the Netherlands' main memorial to the dead of World War II and later conflicts. Designed by J.J.P. Oud and unveiled in 1956, the pale stone spire is the focus of the national Remembrance of the Dead ceremony every 4 May.
It is a quick stop rather than a long visit, but its position between the Royal Palace, De Wallen, and the main shopping streets makes it one of central Amsterdam's most visible historic markers.