Standing on the banks of the Prinsengracht, you can see the weathered facade of a 17th-century canal house that served as both a bustling place of business and a desperate sanctuary. This is where, for over two years, Anne Frank and others lived in the "Secret Annex"—a secluded rear extension hidden from view by surrounding buildings. The site today preserves this history, transforming a space of silence into a profound exploration of life under persecution.
Walking through the Secret Annex
Inside the museum complex spanning three adjacent buildings, you will move beyond the modern exhibition spaces to enter the actual 18th-century rear building where Anne Frank and her family hid. You can see the specific rooms that functioned as their world during World War II: the areas where they lived, worked, and wrote. The exhibition also expands on these physical spaces by detailing the broader history of Anne’s life and the various forms of discrimination and persecution faced by others throughout history.
A journey through history and memory
The museum offers more than just a look at the hiding place; it is an expansive narrative. You can explore:
- The "Secret Annex" (Achterhuis), where Anne wrote her diary in a space of roughly 450 square feet.
- Exhibition halls that detail the life and times of Anne Frank beyond the walls of the hideout.
- A dedicated exhibition space exploring various forms of persecution and discrimination.
- Historical artifacts, including an Academy Award won by actress Shelley Winters for her role in the 1959 film about Anne's life.
Planning your visit to the Prinsengracht
To make the most of your visit, consider these details:
- Time spent: Allow yourself enough time to navigate both the historical rooms and the modern exhibition spaces.
- The Highlights: The core experience is the transition from the public-facing canal houses into the secluded "Achterhuis" at the rear of number 263.
- Preparation: If you are unable to visit in person, the museum offers a virtual reality tour online which includes parts of the annex that remain off-limits to physical visitors.
Exploring the Canal District
Located in the heart of Amsterdam's historic canal district, the Anne Frank House is situated near the Westerkerk. Once you have finished your visit, you can continue exploring the city’s diverse offerings, such as a Canal Cruise or nearby cultural landmarks like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum.
Begin by securing your passage to the Prinsengracht to experience this significant piece of history firsthand.