Amsterdam Centre for Architecture (ARCAM) Celebrates 750 Years with Two Landmark City Models
The Amsterdam Centre for Architecture (ARCAM) is playing a key role in the city's 750th-anniversary celebrations with its involvement in two significant new city models. These impressive maquettes offer unique perspectives on Amsterdam's rich history and future urban development, both opening to the public on October 27, 2025.
ARCAM supports both projects, one providing an engaging cultural experience at Westerpark, and the other revealing a wealth of information about the city's future at the Zuidas. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore Amsterdam in unprecedented detail through these innovative presentations.
The Amsterdam Maquette at WTC Zuidas: A Detailed Look at the City's Evolution
Located in Tower 1 & 2 of the WTC Zuidas, "De Maquette van Amsterdam" is a 70 m² 3D-printed model of the city, meticulously crafted at a scale of 1:2000. It highlights 75 notable buildings, from historical landmarks to ongoing urban projects, and delves into Amsterdam's identity as a water and green city.
This interactive maquette utilizes digital technology to change colors, bringing photos and stories to life, and offering visitors a dynamic new way to experience the city. The immersive presentation was developed by design agency Capitola, with MVSA Architects responsible for the detailed 3D printing. The initiative comes from the Zadelhoff Fonds and Reggeborgh, and its official opening will be conducted by Mayor Femke Halsema.
ARCAM's contribution to this project includes showcasing all the buildings featured in De Groene Architectuurgids on the maquette. Additionally, the unique brick AAP award, created by Aberson, will be displayed in one of the vitrines alongside the model. This maquette is free to visit starting October 27, 2025.
Amsterdam in Motion at Westergas: An Immersive Journey Through Time
Also opening on October 27, 2025, "Amsterdam in Motion" will be housed in the Zuiveringshal Oost at Westergas. This project boasts what is described as the world's largest multimedia city maquette, featuring 30,500 buildings spread across a 200 m² surface at a scale of 1:1300. Visitors can experience a captivating show that traces Amsterdam's evolution from a small village in 1275 to the metropolis it is today and will become tomorrow.
Beyond the central maquette, "Amsterdam in Motion" offers an interactive exhibition exploring current and historical themes such as housing, recreation, fashion, innovation, and biodiversity. The Amsterdam Museum, in collaboration with Westergas and creative agency Monks, oversees the operation of this permanent cultural experience. Adult tickets for "Amsterdam in Motion" are priced at €18. Further details are available on the Amsterdam in Motion website.
Experiencing Amsterdam's Past, Present, and Future
Together, these two maquettes offer distinct yet complementary ways to engage with Amsterdam. One provides a precise, digitally rendered 3D view of the city, while the other blends history, technology, and immersive projections to tell its story. They form a significant part of Amsterdam's 750th-anniversary celebration, honoring the past, reflecting on the present, and envisioning the future of this vibrant city.
Plan Your Visit: Practical Information
- De Maquette van Amsterdam: WTC Zuidas, Tower 1 & 2. Free to visit from October 27, 2025.
- Amsterdam in Motion: Zuiveringshal Oost, Westergas, Pazzanistraat 19-23, 1014 DB Amsterdam. Tickets for adults are €18. Opens October 27, 2025.
To discover more about Amsterdam's architectural landmarks and other cultural institutions, explore Musemap (musemap.art) and browse other museums or find cultural spots on the city map.
