Amsterdam, the |Netherlands - 27 May 2016; The palace was built as a city hall during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century. It then became the royal palace of King Louis Napoleon and later of the Dutch Royal House. It is situated on the west side of Dam Square in the centre of Amsterdam, opposite the War Memorial and next to the Nieuwe Kerk. Although originally built in a light sandstone, it has darkened considerably over time. Just about the only time you can see it without crowds of people is very early in the morning - like here!