My, how time flies. Soon it will already be a year since Amsterdam‘s Moco (Modern Contemporary) Museum (Honthorststraat 20) opened its doors to the public with a wealth of 20th- and 21st-century masterworks, from the pasha of Pop Art, Andy Warhol to today’s street artist Banksy. And in that time the place has gained quite a following especially among young culture fans, with permanent and rotating exhibits that can be viewed in around two hours.
The Moco is a private initiative by modern art collectors (and particularly underground and street art aficionados) Lionel and Kim Logchies. It’s conveniently located around the city centre’s Museumplein, known as the “golden mile” of art thanks to the presence also of the national Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. It’s housed in the impressive Villa Alsberg, a national landmark designed by architect Eduard Cuypers and built in 1904.
The museum has a wonderfully ethical dimension, as well – not just because its restaurant is vegetarian, but also because it gives back to the community, donating a portion of its entrance fees to various good causes. Its enlightened admissions policy also gives students a discounted admission of 10 euros instead of the usual 12.50.
And by the way, if you’re looking for a good feed in the Dutch capital on a student budget, check out the typical “brown cafés” – casual, unpretentious spots with solid local fare at very affordable prices. You’ll find many of them around the city’s Centraal Station rail terminal, just 15 minutes from Moco via public transport.
Good thing Iberia Joven can get you to Amsterdam at great fares!
Moco Museum. Honthorststraat, 20
Photo | Franklin Heijnen
