Right here, near the Hempont ferry dock, rises a symbol of Dutch affection. The Kissing Couple XXXL Statue brightens Amsterdam Westpoort. Have you ever seen a souvenir come to life on such a grand scale?
This isn’t just any statue. It’s a celebration of love along the bike route between Amsterdam and Zaanstad. The Kissing Couple XXXL Statue wants to put this bicycle route on the map. The Kissing Couple encourages more cycling.
Before you stretches a gigantic sculpture. It marks a spot where cyclists pause, awaiting the Hempont ferry. Boats and cruise ships glide past. People can use the nearby picnic tables. They can also charge electric bikes.
These figures are inspired by the classic Delftware kissing couple. These smaller versions are famous souvenirs. You might recognize them from Schiphol Airport. There, smaller kissing couples mark the closing doors.
But who are these characters? The original Delft Blue figures likely represent Jan and Grietje. They are a traditional farming couple from the 18th century. The romantic kiss was added later, during the sexual revolution.
The Kissing Couple XXXL stands almost 10 meters tall. The boy is 8.6 meters high and the girl is 8.1 meters high. There is only 20cm of space between their lips. Together, they weigh 6,700 kg.
The designer and construction teams spent two years creating this huge artwork. Each figure has a steel frame. This frame is covered with expanded polystyrene. A layer of epoxy protects the outside. Coatings resist graffiti and fire.
The Kissing Couple XXXL Statue was installed in late November 2017. It was officially unveiled two weeks later. It has become a modern landmark.
The Hempont ferry itself has a long history. Established in 1876, it connects Amsterdam Westpoort and Zaandam. Until 1932, people pulled it by hand along a cable. Today, it operates 24 hours a day. Pedestrians and cyclists ride for free.
Consider this: the Kissing Couple XXXL Statue. It is not just a pretty picture. It is a point of pride and a beacon for cyclists. Share your love. Capture a kiss photo and share it on Instagram. This is Amsterdam’s version of the Statue of Liberty.