In a city where just about anything goes, and the options of what to do seem endless, a couple of hours spent here can have a lasting effect.
Anne's Original Diary Comes Home to Stay
This past June marked what would have been Anne’s 80th birthday and yet her experiences some sixty years ago seem just as relevant today. In light of this monumental occasion, her original diary was returned to the House (it was originally donated to the Netherlands Institute for War Documentation by her father, Otto Frank) and is now permanently on display. Hard to believe that this pretty little plaid book could affect so many people for so many years.
An Ordinary House with Extraordinary Inhabitants
It is difficult to describe the atmosphere of the museum. From the outside, one would never guess the history that went on inside the walls of this rather plain building. Except, perhaps, for the long lineup of those wishing to pay tribute usually seen crowding the sidewalk out front. But all that changes once you enter the former living/working areas. Visitors first walk through the areas that used to be Otto Frank’s place of business; his office, the supplies cupboard, the receptionists’ area where Miep Gies, typist and aide to the family’s hiding effort, worked.
The most striking part of this stage in the tour comes from the background noise. There is a constant thud of footsteps from people walking the creaky floorboards above; a sound that serves as a reminder of just how still and quiet the hiders had to be during the daytime while the office was still in use.
Living in Constant Fear of Nazi Capture
Then there’s the upstairs. The staircase alone is enough to make you want to turn and run! Incredibly steep and visibly treacherous, one wonders just how their helpers were able to climb up and down to deliver food and supplies. Once up there, it’s little surprise that the most moving experiences are to be had in the families’ (the Franks and the van Pels) living quarters. Some of Anne’s posters and picture clippings are still tacked to the walls of the bedroom she shared with her sister Margot. Pencil markings on another wall document a growth chart for both girls. And all are punctuated with excerpts from Anne’s writings.
A Visit to Anne Frank House - Truly Worthwhile
It’s easy to become overwhelmed in a city such as Amsterdam…there is no apparent end to the number of museums, activities and sights one can take in. Be it the Rijks Museum or the Red Light District, it is truly a city for anyone and everyone. A tour of the Anne Frank House takes maybe an hour or two, at the most. But it’s well worth it – the emotional impact alone speaks volumes.
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