Tunnelvision

This is a view of the backside of the recently re-opened Rijks Museum in Amsterdam, a beautiful building designed by the architect Pierre Cuypers (1827-1921). It was closed for almost 10! years for renovation, which costed a staggering ? 375.000.000,-. It has a tunnel, as you can see here, where you can cycle through.

One of the many problems the museum and the builders had to face, is the minor problem of the tunnel and the cyclists. Before the renovation it was used for the cyclists to go from the centre to the south (direction Concertgebouw) and visa versa. The tunnel was also a place for all kind of (street) musicians to perform, because of the acoustic.

During the renovation it became clear that in the new situation the tunnel would be closed, because the entrance was moved from the front side to the tunnel. And with cyclists riding there, it would be a dangerous situation. A big part of the cyclists protested against those plans, not eager to give up their privilege. After a lot of discussions, research and time the plan was cancelled.

So now after 10 years it is possible again to go there on your bike.