Only in Amsterdam: Squatters Attempt to Takeover Rijksmuseum

I've seen my fair share of demonstrations in Amsterdam, from anti-war and political protests to gatherings of local students angry about too many hours of school. But never did I think I'd see a group of young and (sorry, but it's true) scary-looking young people attempting to "squat" on the Rijksmuseum.

According to the Amsterdam police officer I spoke with at about 3 p.m. today, shortly after the squatters descended upon the building and gated area on the east side of the museum, these people "believe that because the space is empty they should be able to occupy it."

The majority of the Rijksmuseum is closed to the public as it undergoes an extensive renovation, due to be complete in 2012.


^{All photos © 2008 Shannon McAllister, licensed to About.com}