Westerbork Path part 1

Hiking from Amsterdam to Diemen (8.4 km).

Our journey begins at the Hollandsche Schouwburg, which the occupier renamed the ‘Jewish Schouwburg’. It served as a gathering place for arrested Jews. As we stroll, we will pass by Artis and through the picturesque Oosterpark Amsterdam. Along the way, we will also admire the beautiful Jewish cemetery in Diemen.

Hike report

Starting my walk towards Diemen.

Transvaalbuurt

Before World War II, the Transvaalbuurt was home to a large Jewish middle class. But in 1941, the occupier labeled this neighbourhood ‘Judenviertel,’ forcing many Jewish families from outside the area to move in. From 1942, there were regular raids, and the Transvaalplein became a gathering place for the Jewish community. After a major raid on June 20, 1943, almost all the Jews from the Transvaalbuurt were taken away. In memory of those who were taken, a Davidster (a Jewish memorial) has been placed on the corner of Transvaalplein and Transvaalstraat.

Muiderpoort

During the Holocaust, over 11,000 Jews from Amsterdam and the surrounding areas were sent to the Westerbork transit camp. Many of them came from the Hollandsche Schouwburg or were taken from other places to this station.

Trip through their shadows
Another stream of long,
Long forgotten names
Long forgotten eyes?
We will still know
That we forget
Have you forgotten?

- Victor E. van Vriesland

Continuing

Following the route further. Surprised to see an Heron on the outskirts of Amsterdam.

The Jewish cemetery Zeeburg is the only Jewish cemetery within (the built -up area of) the municipality of Amsterdam.

Entering Diemen

I am glad we left Amsterdam behind us now. The city is filthy.

Finish line

Train station Diemen is the finish line for this part.

Map

Details

More info

• Trail details (Dutch)
• Amsterdam
• Diemen