Stadsarchief Amsterdam

The city archives are located in an epic and decorative 1926 building that's shrouded in esoteric mists. The highly ornate structure was designed by architect KPC de Bazel, a practitioner of Theosophy - a spiritualist movement founded by the chain-smoking Madame Blavatsky. The grand centrepiece is the Treasure Room. As embellished as Tutankhamen's Tomb, it displays the prizes of the collection. The archives also host exhibitions and film screenings. There is an excellent bookstore for browsing and a café.