On a bustling Amsterdam day, amidst the flow of people and bicycles, stands the Prins Hendrik Statue. It’s a tribute to a man whose life was intertwined with the sea, a prince who earned the moniker “Hendrik the Zeevaarder” or “Henry the Navigator”. The Prins Hendrik Statue captures him in a moment frozen in time, a testament to his contributions to the Dutch maritime world. Prince Henry of the Netherlands (1820-1879), son of King William II and younger brother of King William III, dedicated his life to the navy. He rose through the ranks, achieving the esteemed position of admiral just days before his passing. Amsterdam, grateful for his dedication to its maritime legacy, sought to honor him. A committee was formed, tasked with creating a fitting memorial. They chose the Prins Hendrikkade, a location where, as a circular proclaimed, “the steamships of the Maatschappij Nederland will constantly wave their flag salute to their founder.” The statue, crafted by Frans Stracké, was unveiled on the prince’s birthday, June 13, 1885, a gift from a “grateful Amsterdam.” Stracké, born in Dorsten, Germany, had a close relationship with Prince Henry. He served as a professor of sculpture at the Academy of Fine Arts in Amsterdam. The statue stands as a reminder of Prince Henry’s legacy. It’s a symbol of his dedication to the sea and the city’s appreciation for his contributions.
Prins Hendrik Statue
Discover cities like never before.
Enjoy over self-guided city exploration with our app ‘Explory’. Learn all about the history and discover hidden more than 500.000 hidden gems, that only locals know about. Build custom tours, find nearby places, and start exploring instantly.
More Places in Amsterdam
RK Begraafplaats Overtuin
Tranquility surrounds you. You stand before RK Begraafplaats Buitenveldert. This isn’t just any cemetery. It’s a place steeped in history.
Boterhuisbrug
Slipping through time, let’s journey back to a small fishing village nestled beside the Amstel River. Imagine Amsterdam in the
Landgoed Duin en Kruidberg
How did a modest hunting lodge become a five-star hotel? Welcome to Landgoed Duin en Kruidberg a place where history
Spoorbrug HIJSM
Slipping through time, let’s find ourselves in 1837 Amsterdam. Excitement crackled in the air. The Hollandsche IJzeren Spoorweg-Maatschappij (HIJSM), the
de Bibliotheek Hillegom
Have you ever felt the quiet hum of turning pages? Right here before you stands de Bibliotheek Hillegom. This unassuming
Cornelis Ritterbrug
How many stories could this humpbacked bridge tell? The Cornelis Ritterbrug stands before us a testament to Amsterdam’s intricate network