Dutch Resistance Museum Amsterdam Welcomes New Director Karlien Metz
The Dutch Resistance Museum in Amsterdam is set to welcome a new director, Karlien Metz, effective July 1, 2025. Metz, who has been with the museum since 2015 as a conservator and head of exhibitions and collections, will succeed Liesbeth van der Horst. Van der Horst has been involved with the Resistance Museum since 1990 and has served as its general director since 2003.
A New Chapter for the Amsterdam Resistance Museum
The appointment marks a significant transition for this prominent Amsterdam institution. Jozias van Aartsen, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, expressed gratitude for Liesbeth van der Horst's tireless commitment to making the history of World War II accessible to a wide audience. He also highlighted the board's enthusiasm for Karlien Metz's promotion from within, noting her success with engaging exhibitions that transform complex historical themes into accessible narratives. Metz's clear vision for the museum's contemporary role is expected to guide its future direction.
Karlien Metz Steps into Leadership Role
Karlien Metz shared her anticipation for her new role, having been responsible for numerous temporary exhibitions and the new permanent setup over the past nine years. She aims to build upon the strong foundation established by her predecessor, working with the team to develop programming that offers reflection and inspiration relevant to the present day. Metz emphasized the enduring relevance of stories of resistance against dictatorship, oppression, and exclusion, particularly as democratic values face global challenges.
Reflecting on a Legacy and Looking Ahead
Liesbeth van der Horst noted that an important phase of museum renewal has concluded with the opening of the new section dedicated to former colonies. After 35 years of service, she is taking early retirement to write a book about resistance fighter Gerrit van der Veen. Van der Horst expressed confidence in Karlien Metz as her ideal successor, pleased that Metz will continue her journey with the museum in this new capacity. During her tenure, the museum expanded to include the acclaimed Verzetsmuseum Junior and saw visitor numbers grow significantly, from an average of 15,000 annually to 120,000 last year.
Celebrating 40 Years of History in Amsterdam
The Dutch Resistance Museum, founded by former resistance members in 1984, first opened its doors on November 19, 1985, in a former synagogue in Amsterdam’s Rivierenbuurt. It later relocated to the more central Gebouw Plancius in the Plantagebuurt in 1998, reopening in April 1999. In November 2025, the museum will celebrate its 40th anniversary, an occasion that will also serve as a formal farewell to Liesbeth van der Horst.
To discover more about the Dutch Resistance Museum and other historical sites in the city, you can browse the museums list on Musemap (musemap.art).
