Amsterdam: Jerusalem of the West｜Netherlands

Embark on a 2-hour walking tour through Amsterdam's historic Jewish Quarter and discover the remarkable story of the city's Jewish community. Learn how Sephardic Jews fleeing the Spanish and Portuguese Inquisitions found refuge in Amsterdam during the late 16th century, followed by Ashkenazi Jews escaping war and persecution in Central and Eastern Europe.

Thanks to the Dutch Republic's tradition of religious tolerance, Amsterdam grew into one of Europe's most important Jewish centers, earning the nickname "The Jerusalem of the West." As you explore the neighborhood where generations of Jewish families lived, worked, and worshipped, discover how the Jewish community helped shape Amsterdam's identity.

From the thriving diamond and sugar industries to publishing, medicine, culture, and trade, Jewish residents made lasting contributions that can still be seen throughout the city today. The tour also explores one of the darkest chapters in Amsterdam's history: the Holocaust and its devastating impact on the Jewish community.

But the story doesn't end there. Learn how Jewish life has endured and evolved, and discover the vibrant community that continues to thrive in Amsterdam today.