History
Up to the fifteenth century, Amsterdam never needed any walls for defense purpose. The city was situated in the middle of marshlands and swamps. The only thing that separated it from the countryside was a deep canal surrounding the entire city. In 1482, when the danger of war was imminent, the citizens of the town completed the construction of a whole wall with towers at its farthest corners within one year. One of these towers was called “Rondeel”, built in 1535, and right on the spot where Hotel de l’Europe is now standing.
In 1638 an inn was built on the site of the old “Rondeel”, partially constructed on the same foundation. The inn was very simple to start with, but in 1652 it was expanded on the side facing the Amstel River and a beautiful elevation was put in Renaissance style.
Fast forward two centuries, on April 27th 1895 the construction started of a new hotel and was re-opened on the 23rd of September 1896 as Hotel de l’Europe. The architect, W. Hamer, succeeded in incorporating certain elements of the old style of the side facades into the new building, giving it a romantic exterior.
The building is founded on approximately 620 piles and is made of mountain stone and red bricks in Renaissance style.
By fall of 2010, the hotel will complete a major refurbishment of its 100 rooms and suites with the authentic fascination of the classic atmosphere jealously preserved. With elevated service standards, and added exclusive amenities and outlets creating an unforgettable experience. As welcoming for today’s travelers as it was for the many of yesterday.
Throughout the centuries, the hotel has been a long time favorite among prominent business professionals, politicians, celebrities and socialites. It has been the backdrop of numerous movies.
Giacomo Girolamo Casanova de Seingalt, visited the hotel in 1758 during his first visit to Amsterdam. Multatuli, famous Dutch author who wrote amongst others Max Havelaar, was guest at the hotel in 1863.
Just before the 2nd World War, the hotel was used by Alfred Hitchcock as a location for his movie “Foreign Correspondent”. By suggesting a defect in the name of the hotel on the roof, one could only read “Hot Europe”. The director was referring to the explosive political situation in Europe at the time.
Today, Hotel de l’Europe is still called home by leaders of the world, royalty, artists and socialites.