Discover the Beauty of Humanity at Zaandam’s Unique Museum of Humanity

There are all manner of museums in the world and some can really catch you off guard like the Museum of Humanity in Zaandam, Netherlands. We stayed in Zaandam for two months and during our time there, we noticed how many tourists seem to miss this intriguing city that hugs Amsterdam to the north.

Many people will scoot through to find the Dutch windmills of Zaanse Schans, but there are quite a few more things to do in Zaandam than many realize and the Museum of Humanity is one of them.

Museum of Humanity, Zaandam, Netherlands

What you need to know to visit the Museum of Humanity in Zaandam, Netherlands:

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Basic Info

Address: Building 155, Ketelhuis 10, Zaandam, Netherlands
Directions: From Zaandam Station, take bus 456 that will get there in just 7 stops. It’s a pretty quick ride.
Hours: Friday – Sunday: 12:00pm ~ 3:00pm (Check website for current hours as they can change seasonally.)
Admission: Free/Donation based
Website: www.museumofhumanity.nl

What is the Museum of Humanity

Step inside what looks like a rather derelict building to find an open space filled with portraits of people from around the world. The Museum of Humanity has been described as a place where every portrait is a story and every face a reflection of our shared humanity.

Founded in 2001, the Museum of Humanity is the brainchild of visionary photographer Ruben Timman. It originated from a dream where Timman envisioned a neglected museum symbolizing the world’s disregard for human dignity. This powerful dream motivated him to capture the beauty and dignity of humanity in its truest form. Today, the museum, housed in a repurposed ammunition factory, showcases over 8,000 portraits from Timman’s travels across 20 countries on five continents.

A Family-Friendly Experience

This museum is perfect for families seeking a meaningful and thought-provoking experience. You’ll find yourselves drawn to different portraits for various reasons making for a great opportunity to discuss with your children the stories behind the images and the people. It’s a space where children and adults alike can learn about the diverse tapestry of human life.

The collection presents a range of emotions and stories, encouraging visitors to look beyond their own lives and understand the commonalities that bind us all.

Engaging Activities

Beyond the visual display, the Museum of Humanity offers interactive experiences. Visitors can step into a ‘Better Shelter’ to understand the living conditions of refugee families, adding depth to the narrative of global humanity. There are volunteer staff that help foster discussion as well. Be sure to talk with them and let them show you around a bit.

A Message for the Future

Through its displays, the Museum of Humanity doesn’t just showcase portraits; it aims to change perspectives. It’s a reminder of the universal beauty and dignity of humanity, encouraging visitors to see beyond differences and recognize the shared human experience.

Eat nearby at Lab-44

You’ve made it to the Museum of Humanity but don’t leave without looking around the Zaanse Hembrug area. There are a number of cool buildings here that house galleries and art spaces as well as restaurants and cafes. We ate at Lab-44 when we visited.

Lab-44 is housed in a striking building that formerly housed a weapons and ammunitions factory. Their menu is substantial with everything whether you’re looking for a small dish to something more and they have a children’s menu for a dish just the right size for a smaller belly. We had a great meal here and would highly recommend it. I must have been hungry because I didn’t take any photos once the food arrived apparently. I do remember a delicious hamburger though.

Address: Middenweg 44, 1505 RK, Zaandam, Netherlands
Hours: Thursday – Sunday: 12:00pm ~ (Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesdays groups can be accommodated upon request.)
Website: www.lab-44.nl

Don’t miss what there is to see in Zaandam, Netherlands. There might be more than you realize.

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