Gems of 17th and 18th-century architecture can be found throughout the Netherlands. AmsterdamÃs canalside houses are world-famous and the imposing Royal Palace on Dam Square, designed by architect Jacob van Campen and decorated with sculptures by Artus Quellijn, reflects the wealth and power of the Golden Age. By contrast, the Amsterdam School, an architectural movement that flourished between 1910 and 1930, introduced a sober style characterised by horizontals with round accents, sculptures and stained glass.
There is a wealth of modern architecture in the Netherlands and ample opportunity for young architects to experiment with new ideas in the country's emerging towns and growth centres. Through its commissions, the government has a substantial impact on architectural trends. Its own buildings are often trendsetters in their field.
