Step into a world where history and luxury converge at Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam. Nestled between two picturesque canals, this iconic hotel invites you on a journey through time, where every corner whispers stories of the past.
The Legend of The Grand
The building of The Grand has a rich history dating back to 1411 when it was the site of St. Catherine’s Convent and St. Cecilia’s Convent. After the Reformation in 1578, Protestantism was adopted as the official religion of Holland and convents were confiscated as city property. The St. Cecilia Convent became known as 'Princenhof,' accommodating esteemed guests, including European royalty. In 1655, the Admiralty of Amsterdam took ownership of the property and a structure between the former convents was built. The impressive façade of this main building is now the entrance of The Grand.
The transition continued in 1808 when the city hall of Amsterdam moved to Princenhof, so that the French King, Louis, could convert the former city hall on the Dam into his Royal Palace. Even after the country regained its independence, the Princenhof remained as the city hall of Amsterdam for the next 180 years. After World War II, the Princenhof was considered ill-equipped to serve as the government seat of a large mercantile city. Eventually, a new city hall was constructed, opening its doors in 1988. With the Princenhof no longer serving as the seat of Amsterdam’s governance, its fate was uncertain. In 1992, a new chapter began for the historic building with a transformative renovation to become the luxurious Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam. The unique history of the property is still visible on both the outside and the inside of the building.
Art at The Grand
Art de Vivre is at the heart of the Sofitel brand, encouraging guests to enjoy the art of living, French elegance, culture and history. The Grand is the perfect place for art lovers with its rich history and the presence of original works of art by various (Dutch) famous painters and sculptors. Famous artists have contributed to both the exterior of the building - the imposing façade - and the interior. To illustrate, artists Hildo Krop, Chris Lebau, Willem Penaat, Joseph Mendes de Costa, John Raedecker, Karel Appel and Johan Thorn Prikker created beautiful art pieces that are showcased at The Grand. In 1949, the renowned artist, Karel Appel, was asked to paint a mural at the canteen of the city hall of Amsterdam. This painting can still be admired at the entrance of Oriole Garden Bistro and restaurant Bridges. His style was vastly different from that of artist Chris Lebeau who painted the room filling mural in the Marriage Chamber. While the new artistic work wasn’t well received at that time, both murals are considered invaluable art treasures of the city today.
Additionally, The Grand has collaborated with many of today’s artists in previous years, including a selection of artists for the Artist in Residence project, painter Rob van Trier, milliner Daffy van der Vyldre and Ukrainian fine-art photographer Marta Syrko. These partnerships are a unique possibility to give younger artists the opportunity to become a part of this history of the monumental building.
Historical Tour
If the 600-year-old halls of The Grand could talk, what tales would they tell?
For those eager to uncover the secrets of the past, embark on a private tour and unravel the captivating history of The Grand. Daily at 11.00 am, guests are able to join a tour to see the artworks, historical rooms, both contemporary and historical designs and learn about the history and legendary stories. From its beginnings as a convent to becoming the city hall of Amsterdam, every step reveals a new chapter in the vibrant history. Experience the art of living at The Grand, where every moment is a celebration of heritage, culture, and unparalleled luxury.
Book your stay today and write your own chapter in this timeless saga of elegance and grandeur.
For more information:
www.sofitel-legend-thegrand.com
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