The National Slavery Monument stands in Oosterpark in Amsterdam-Oost. Made from waste metals, the sculpture traces slavery, the struggle for liberation and freedom. At the rear, African men, women and children are shown walking in a group, bound together. Look closely as you move around the work: faces emerge in details linked to the recovery or redefinition of identity. The park setting gives you room to pause nearby and view the monument from different angles.
A sculpture in Oosterpark
The National Slavery Monument was installed in 2002 in Oosterpark, in Amsterdam-Oost. Made from waste metals, it tells a story of slavery, the movement toward liberation and freedom. The figures at the rear show African men, women and children walking together, roped to one another.
The park offers space to stop and look at the work from more than one angle. Rather than viewing it only as you pass, take time to follow the figures and the progression of the sculpture.
Following the stages of the memorial
The monument’s composition moves through three stages: slavery, the breakthrough toward liberation and final freedom. Observe how the sculpture changes as you follow that sequence. Details of faces become visible within the work, associated with the recovery or redefinition of identity.
A quiet pause nearby can give you time to take in those details. The memorial is a place to reflect on the history it represents; approach it with care and respect.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is the National Slavery Monument?
It is in Oosterpark, at Oosterpark 9 in Amsterdam-Oost.
What does the monument represent?
The sculpture traces slavery, liberation and freedom. Its figures include African men, women and children walking together, bound by ropes.
What is the monument made from?
It is made from waste metals.
Is there an entry fee?
The monument is a free attraction in Oosterpark.
