The paper describes the geotechnical design and execution challenges in underground construction in the historical center of Amsterdam. The geotechnical design and risk management approach of the total works will be presented in detail, with special attention to the specific geotechnical conditions in Amsterdam and the GeoRM risk document. The design results, using FEM calculations will be mentioned shortly and the risk control during execution of the works will be presented and discussed. The design contains special geotechnical features such as trenching to remove underground obstacles, special retaining walls and measures to prevent instability of the excavation floor. Through a sophisticated geotechnical and structural design, and by applying Geotechnical Risk Management in the design and during execution the Museum was constructed successfully without any significant damage or delay.