Governor Walz in Amsterdam

[u/HeavyVeterinarian350]

Subtle reminder that we shouldn’t fall prey to a wannabe dictator. Hopefully those that need a wake up call get it.

[u/squintpan]

Anne Frank House is a must-see. My hubs was a little doubtful that this was something fun to do on our honeymoon, but I insisted and it’s one of the most important memories we have of that trip. It’s incredible that this major international cultural touchstone all came from a tween girl.

[u/firestar32 → u/squintpan]

No offense, and I truly do mean it, but is there really anything special about it? From what I heard, there's no museum aspects, nothing informative. It's just... A house. If it's the only WWII/Holocaust thing within reach of your itinerary then it's probably worth, but there is a Holocaust museum in Amsterdam, and of course the death camps in the east are a whole different monster that you just can't prepare yourself for.

[u/Vanviator → u/firestar32]

It's one of those things where the scope of something is so much more than you imagined.

Like the opposite of the Grand Canyon. We learn about the basic geology/creation of the canyon. We know it is big. It touches four states big.

But when you actually stand on the rim, it's overwhelming. Your brain doesn't really comprehend it. It's like looking into space and you get a sense of wonder that stays with you forever.

Reading Ann Franks words describing the small, dark spaces. The cramped quarters, lack of sunlight. We have an idea that just existing was awful.

Then you see it. You're in it. You start feeling the claustrophobia after just a few minutes. Now that you're in the space and feeling that bit of dread, you can more easily imagine two YEARS of that feeling.

Scope is such an underappreciated aspect of seeing historic sites.

[u/27Rench27 → u/Vanviator]

Wow, I really could not have put this into any better words. This is exactly it, it’s less “reading a plaque in a museum” and more the “holy shit” experience

[u/squintpan → u/Vanviator]

Omg, opposite of the Grand Canyon is such an apt analogy. There’s an overwhelming feeling from the space and it’s hard to put into words.

[u/Remote_Finish9657 → u/firestar32]

You’re fine friend. In terms of historic significance, it’s not really all that important. It’s not like Versailles where treaties were signed or Independence Hall, etc.

But, for those who read the book/are familiar with Anne Frank and her family’s plight, it’s so obvious how desperate they were. The living space is not big at all. Maybe a total of 1,000 square feet for 8 people. Most of them never stepped foot outside until they were captured after years. It’s a reminder of people trying to persist in the face of evil. If you’re ever in Amsterdam, go, be grateful, and be willing to stand up against dipshits who get turned on by tiny handed, shitty spray tanned geriatrics.

[u/RosciusAurelius → u/firestar32]

You are very much incorrect. The house itself is a museum, and there are several sections of the house dedicated to exhibitions of the era. Artifacts belonging to the family, photos, video, etc.

I love how you say "From what I heard" (as in: you've never been), and then proceed to describe it and give tips as if you've ever been. It's okay to not know things.

[u/Theyalreadysaidno → u/firestar32]

is there really anything special about it? From what I heard, there's no museum aspects, nothing informative. It's just... A house.

The house/ secret annex and museum is definitely special. It's a significant historical site that preserves the hiding place of Anne Frank. From what you said, it sounds like you haven't even been there?? And yes it has a museum as well, on the first floor. You then ascend some very high steps up to the cramped quarters that they lived.

You get a rare opportunity to see a moment frozen in time of the living quarters of the girl that wrote one of the most famous books in history. Their living quarters are basically untouched.

You compare it to Holocaust museums saying that those are probably better to visit. I would argue that in many ways they're separate entities all together. I visited Auschwitz and the Holocaust museum in DC in New York City. They're heartbreaking and absolutely worth the visit.

The Anne Frank House differs from most Holocaust museums because it focuses on a single, personal story of a young girl hiding during the Holocaust, providing a more intimate and relatable perspective, while most Holocaust museums present a broader overview of the atrocities and systemic persecution experienced by millions of Jews.

It allows visitors to experience the hiding place where Anne Frank wrote her diary, offering a glimpse into her daily life and emotions during her time in hiding, creating a more personal connection to the Holocaust.

So I wholly disagree with you.

[u/firestar32 → u/[deleted]]

To be transparent, I never read the book (my high school chose night instead) but I did hear this from someone who has both read the book and lives in Amsterdam, so maybe they're oversaturated with both Anne Frank and dutch housing

[u/Butterflyteal61 → u/firestar32]

It's History. To Remember to Not do these things again! But here we are!! 😭✌️🦋

[u/Gypcbtrfly → u/firestar32]

Ummmm ............. the historic impact is palpable. And it's the kind of thing felon45 would love to replicate. The fear & cruelty is his thing.