The building

The NEMO Science and Technology Center is housed in a striking green building on Amsterdam's Eastern Dock and faces the historic port of Amsterdam. The Italian architect Renzo Piano designed the building and it opened in 1997. NEMO literally means 'no one'. The name refers to the voyage of discovery between fantasy and reality. Nowadays, discoveries and changes occur so rapidly that it is difficult to understand and be up-to-date on everything. In NEMO, these modern developments are explained during a voyage of discovery. The roof terrace of the NEMO is accessible to visitors and non-visitors alike, and offers a breathtaking view of Amsterdam city.

The exhibition

NEMO focuses on the relationship between science, technology and art as manifestations of human creativity. This is done in the form of interactive exhibits, demonstrations and performances.  The permanent exhibitions at NEMO can be seen on three floors. These exhibitions take you on your voyage through the worlds of science, technology, biomedical industry and information technology. The interactive attraction 'Phenomena' informs you about light, sound, static energy and relativity theory in a playful manner. You can also visit the 'Factory'. Here colored balls jump, roll and fall through a complicated machine. Your task is to choose, sort and pack the balls correctly.

Discoveries

Many modern inventions need energy, such as electricity or oil. How do we get energy and what can we do to pollute the earth as little as possible? You can experiment with water, the clean source of energy. Build dams and turbines! In order to discover things you have to ask questions and look for answers. For younger children ages 4 to 8, there is a special section where you can dress up, see yourself on television, build a house and experiment with light and sound.