The Hash, Marijuana and Hemp Museum, in the heart of Amsterdam's Red Light District, has seen more than a million visitors pass through its doors since its opening in 1985. Each year, about 75,000 visitors are welcomed. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the distinct smell of various strains of the plant growing in the museum's indoor cannabis garden. The garden, shielded from visitors by a glass wall, has special growing lights for cultivation. The garden plants demonstrate the various stages of growth, and some of the plants stand as high as five feet.
Cannabis and hemp have been used for many things in their 8,000-year history. This museum sheds light on all that, from paper and textiles production to jewelry making. The museum discusses the medicinal benefits of cannabis, as well as how the plant benefits the environment, agriculture and industry. Of course, the museum also discusses the recreational use of marijuana. Historical facts about the plant are mixed with information about how to grow, roll and smoke cannabis. Exhibits show various equipment and tools used for growing and smoking cannabis and hash.
Adorning the walls of the museum is an impressive collection of original artwork, memorabilia and photography centered around the main theme. One collection of black and white photography documents the hash manufacturing process from start to finish in Afghanistan. Memorabilia documents the history of cannabis from the 19th Century to the present day.
The museum attempts to present an objective perspective on the controversial plant while educating the public on its various uses. It discusses scientific breakthroughs involving cannabis and how in the past, present and the future of the cannabis plant are merging together. Visitors to this museum will emerge much more enlightened, educated and perhaps a little more dizzy than before.
