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Discover the rich history of the Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House in Amsterdam is one of the most visited historical sites in the world. It preserves the hiding place of Anne Frank and her family during World War II and houses original artifacts, including her diary. The museum shares the personal story of life in hiding and the impact of the Holocaust.

Anne Frank House timeline

  • Early 1600s: The canal house on Prinsengracht 263 was built by architect Dirk van Delft, reflecting classic Dutch urban design.
  • 1920s-1930s: Otto Frank’s company used the front building as offices and a warehouse, while employees worked and lived upstairs.
  • 1942: Anne Frank and her family went into hiding here to escape Nazi persecution.
  • 1944: The Frank family was discovered and deported to concentration camps.
  • 1945: Anne Frank died in Bergen-Belsen; her father Otto Frank survived and returned to Amsterdam.
  • 1947: Otto Frank decided to publish Anne’s diary, bringing her story to the world.
  • 1960: The Anne Frank House officially opened as a museum, preserving the Secret Annex.
  • 1999-2000: From 1995 to 1999, Benthem Crouwel Architects renovated the building, enhancing visitor movement, adding educational areas and exhibitions, all while protecting the Secret Annex.
  • 2018: Digital guides and multimedia exhibits were added to enhance understanding of Anne Frank’s life.

History of Anne Frank House explained

Early 1600s: Canal house built

The house at Prinsengracht 263 was built in 1635 by Dirk van Delft. It shows classic Dutch Golden Age style with tall façades and large windows, reflecting Amsterdam’s prosperity and charm during the canal district expansion.

1920s-1930s: Otto Frank’s company accommodation 

The front building was used by Otto Frank’s company as offices and a warehouse. Employees lived and worked upstairs. The house kept its traditional look while serving practical business needs before it became a hiding place during the war.

1942: Going into hiding

On July 6, 1942, Anne Frank and her family hid in the Secret Annex. The annex was behind a movable bookcase, and they lived quietly under tense conditions while Anne began writing her diary every day.

1944: Discovery by Gestapo

In August 1944, the Secret Annex was discovered. The family was arrested and sent to concentration camps. Their two years in hiding ended, and they faced the harsh realities of the Holocaust.

1945: Anne’s death

Anne Frank died in Bergen-Belsen concentration camp early in 1945. Her father, Otto Frank, was the only family member to survive and returned to Amsterdam, determined to preserve Anne’s memory and diary.

1947: Diary published

Otto Frank decided to publish Anne’s diary as Het Achterhuis. The diary shared her thoughts and experiences, teaching the world about hope, courage, and the terrible consequences of hatred.

1960: Museum opens

The Anne Frank House opened on May 3, 1960. The Secret Annex was preserved, and the museum started welcoming visitors to learn about Anne, life in hiding, and the history of Jewish persecution in Amsterdam.

1995-1999: Renovation

Benthem Crouwel Architects renovated the museum, improving visitor flow, creating educational spaces, and enhancing exhibitions. They carefully preserved the Secret Annex so people could experience its history respectfully.

2018: Digital upgrades

The museum introduced digital guides and multimedia exhibits to help visitors understand Anne’s life and history better. Interactive tools make the story more engaging, especially for younger audiences, while respecting the quiet atmosphere of the house.

Construction of the Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House was originally constructed in the early 1600s by Gerrit Jan van Arkel, using classic Dutch canal house design. Its tall, narrow façade, large windows, and sturdy brickwork reflect Amsterdam’s urban style at the time. The Secret Annex was cleverly adapted to be hidden behind a movable bookcase, a rare and ingenious feature. Over centuries, the house hosted multiple families, each adding subtle changes. When the museum was established, care was taken to preserve the original structure while making it safe and educational for visitors. The building’s construction and adaptation showcase both historical architecture and the creativity required during the war.

Anne Frank House Today

Today, the Anne Frank House is a museum and memorial that attracts over a million visitors each year. The building preserves the Secret Annex, original artifacts, and educational exhibits. Its rich history provides insight into Anne Frank’s life, the Holocaust, and human resilience. Visiting the museum offers a deeply personal and reflective experience, making it a must-see for anyone traveling to Amsterdam.

Frequently asked questions about the history of Anne Frank House

The canal house dates back to the early 1600s.