Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum – which attracts some 1.5 million visitors each year - will close from October 2012 for six months’ restoration work.

Director Axel Ruger says the present condition of the building could pose a threat to the security of visitors and the preservation of the paintings in the long run. While repair work is going on at the museum, the most prominent works of art – including 75 paintings by Vincent van Gogh – will be moved to the Hermitage Amsterdam.

The Van Gogh Museum, the most visited art museum in the Netherlands, will be the third museum in Amsterdam’s so-called “Museumplein” (Museum Square) to undergo major renovation work. The restoration work at the Rijksmuseum - which houses work from Rembrandt and Vermeer - and Amsterdam’s modern art Stedelijk Museum has been going on for several years.

But the Van Gogh’s director says it’s “essential” that his museum open again in 2013 – the year of its 40th anniversary - both for the city of Amsterdam and for the gallery itself. The Rijksmuseum is also planning to reopen in 2013 and the city’s main concert hall, het Concertgebouw, will also celebrate its 125th anniversary.

(jn)

© Radio Netherlands Worldwide