Homomonument: Amsterdam's memorial to victims of homophobia

Updated on October 8, 2026

The Homomonument, on the Westermarkt, is a memorial to the women and men persecuted because of their homosexuality. Designed by the artist Karin Daan and unveiled in 1987, it is considered one of the first monuments of its kind in the world. It consists of three pink granite triangles, set on the square and at the edge of the Keizersgracht, right next to the Westerkerk. Access is free at any hour: allow 10 to 15 minutes, longer if you want to pause in reflection.

Highlights

The three triangles

The three pink granite triangles together form one large triangle, a reminder of the pink triangle that homosexual prisoners had to wear in the Nazi camps. Each one points to a place in the city: one towards the National Monument on Dam Square, another towards the Anne Frank House, the third towards the headquarters of the COC association.

The steps down to the canal

The triangle whose steps lead down to the water of the Keizersgracht is the most photographed. Visitors sit there and leave flowers.

The inscription

A line by the poet Jacob Israël de Haan is carved on one of the triangles: "Naar vriendschap zulk een mateloos verlangen" ("Such a boundless longing for friendship").

Ceremonies

The monument is a place of remembrance, notably during the gathering on 4 May, and a meeting point during Amsterdam Pride week. Flowers are laid there all year round.

Practical info

Tips

The monument is outdoors and free, with no ticket or reservation. Respect the place: it is a memorial, not just a photo backdrop. Visit it together with the Westerkerk and the Anne Frank House, a minute away on foot. Our Amsterdam LGBT guide covers the city's community and nightlife.

How to get there

Westermarkt, 1016 DK Amsterdam, at the corner of the Keizersgracht, next to the Westerkerk. About 20 minutes' walk from Amsterdam Centraal station. While the Rozengracht roadworks last, no tram serves the Westermarkt stop: get off at the Dam tram stop, a 10-minute walk away.