The Torture Museum is a local museum dedicated to the grisly history of torture and the instruments used throughout the years. Even more uncommon and lesser known objects of torture can be found here, such as the Flute of Shame.
Given the subject matter of this museum, it's best only visited by adults with a strong stomach. There's nothing particularly gory or nasty on display, but imagining the pain and fear of the victims can be disturbing to some. Most people spend about an hour here in total.
The Torture Museum - one of the highlights of 8 Things to Do Off the Beaten Track in Amsterdam (Read all about Amsterdam here)
photo by Sander Petrus (CC BY-SA 4.0) modified
The Torture Museum highlights
You'll find plenty of fascinating exhibits at The Torture Museum. The artifacts on display are interesting and highlight some of humanity's darkest days. You'll find several instruments you may expect, such as the stocks and the rack, but you can also see the Flute of Shame. This torture instrument was a heavy iron mock flute that poor public performers were made to wear as a form of public humiliation.
While the objects here are certainly dour, the museum itself is more theatrical in its presentation. This is intentional, as it adds some lightness to alleviate the otherwise somber tone of the entire exhibition.
Good to know when visiting The Torture Museum
When you visit The Torture Museum, you'll be happy to know that the museum caters to foreign visitors. All the articles that accompany the various devices on display are in 6 different languages, including English.
If you're expecting historical authenticity, you'll only find it in a portion of the devices on display. Some legitimately do come from centuries past, but others are simple recreations garnered from descriptions left in old texts. The museum is located in the town center, so you'll find plenty of opportunity to explore other attractions in the area.
The Torture Museum
Location: Singel 449, 1012 WP Amsterdam, Netherlands
Open: Daily from 10 am to 11 pm
Phone: +31 20 320 6642