Uncover the History of 'The Prince and the City - William V in Amsterdam' Exhibition

This exhibition recreates the significant 1768 event where Stadtholder William V and his wife visited Amsterdam, exploring the political and social dynamics between the powerful stadtholder and the city council. Visitors can experience the grandeur of the reception through recreated settings, historical artifacts, and immersive sound and visuals.

The exhibition "The Prince and the City - William V in Amsterdam" delves into the most significant event of the 18th century: the visit of Stadtholder William V and his wife, Wilhelmina, Princess of Prussia, to Amsterdam from May 30th to June 4th, 1768. The display meticulously recreates the temporary royal atmosphere that infused the Town Hall, now the Royal Palace Amsterdam, during this period. Central to the exhibition is the complex relationship between the country's most powerful person and its most influential city. The narrative unfolds the story of royal and political spectacle against a backdrop of economic challenges and growing discontent within Amsterdam. Through descriptions of grand dinners, banquets, ceremonial carriage tours, and a spectacular ball in the Citizens' Hall, the exhibition highlights how Amsterdam's city council, facing wars and commercial competition, sought to engage the young Stadtholder. Simultaneously, William V aimed to solidify his influence in this mighty city. The exhibition captures this moment of mutual seeking, offering visitors a glimpse into the festivities that served as a welcome distraction for the people of Amsterdam in uncertain times, all while foreshadowing the turbulent constitutional upheavals to come. Visitors can relive the historical splendor, including sound and vision presentations of the ball held in the Citizens' Hall. The exhibition proudly features the two specially crafted stadtholder chairs, returning to their original place after 255 years, alongside remarkable collection pieces from the Royal Collections of the Netherlands. These include William V's Windsor uniform, ornamental sword, and five extraordinary portraits, with masterpieces by Johann Friedrich August Tischbein. The exhibition also reconstructs the dining room where William V dined, complete with period porcelain service, silverware, and specially crafted sugar confectionery by renowned pastry chef Jeroen Goossens.

Tickets for the exhibition can be purchased online. The exhibition is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00. Visitors can also explore a free accompanying city walk retracing the footsteps of William V in Amsterdam.