Ajax celebrates their 125th anniversary. A milestone in the 750-year history of Amsterdam. In the hall of City Archives Amsterdam on the Vijzelgracht in Amsterdam, the exhibition Eén club, Eén stad, Ajax Amsterdam (One Club, One City, Ajax Amsterdam) tells the story of the club and the city.

It’s a story about the people who founded the club, growth and professionalization, good and bad times for Amsterdam and Ajax, local talent and international stars, pioneering football women and the many forms of support.

For this exhibition, sports historian Jurryt van de Vooren delved into the archives in search of special stories. Using photos, documents from the archive, footage and portraits, 125 years of Ajax and Amsterdam are shown.

For example, Louis van Gaal talks about growing up in Watergraafsmeer, Jari Litmanen about his arrival at Ajax, Isa Kardinaal explains what it means to wear the Ajax shirt and Mister Ajax Sjaak Swart goes back to the golden years, between 1965 and 1975.

Highlights are of course shown, by means of historical radio and television footage and a small number of unique historical objects, such as the medal with the original Ajax logo from 1924. But Ajax is more than players, trainers and a stadium. Supporters are also very important. They tell their special and personal stories in this exhibition as well.

The exhibition is appropriate for all ages. Visitors can wander through the history of Ajax and Amsterdam. Those who are tired, can rest in the fan café. There’s a special audio tour for children.

Bert de Vries, director of City Archives Amsterdam: “SV Ajax approached us and we were enthusiastic immediately. The history of Amsterdam and Ajax are inseparable.”

“We hope that the exhibition gives all visitors an insight into the development of Ajax and Amsterdam. We’ve chosen an accessible exhibition to stay close to supporters. In addition, fans can also become part of the exhibition in a surprising way.”

Fabian Nagtzaam, director-manager SV Ajax: “It’s fantastic that we’ve been able to put together such an unique exhibition together with City Archives Amsterdam. We started more than two years ago, with the condition that the exhibition should be freely accessible to all visitors. Everyone should be able to enjoy Ajax and Amsterdam.”

“We couldn’t have wished for a better gift. The exhibition reflects our unconditional love for Ajax and Amsterdam. We would like to thank all those involved who made this possible.”

City Archives Amsterdam is open every week from Tuesday to Friday between 10:00 and 17:00. On Saturday and Sunday, you can visit the exhibition from 12:00 to 17:00. We also organize events in City Archives Amsterdam. Keep an eye on our channels for more information.

The exhibition runs from April 25 to September 28 in City Archives Amsterdam.