First called Reguliersplein, then Botermarkt for the butter markets held here until the mid-19th century, this somewhat brash square now takes its name from the statue of the painter erected in 1876. Beneath Rembrandt is a photo-op favourite: imposing life-sized bronze sculptures re-creating his famous painting, The Night Watch (see the original in the Rijksmuseum).
Rembrandtplein evolved into a nightlife hub as cafes, restaurants and clubs opened their doors, and remains a cornerstone of Amsterdam nightlife.
On the northern side of the square, De Kroon, which opened in 1898, is one of the grandest ³¦²¹´Úé²õ in town. Opposite, Café Schiller, dating from 1892, is renowned for its theatrical crowd and fabulous art deco interior, including stained-glass windows.