Located in the heart of The Hague, Noordeinde Palace is one of three official residences of the Dutch Royal Family. It’s a place where history and grandeur meet, offering visitors an insight into centuries-old traditions and architectural splendor. While it isn’t open to the public for tours like other royal palaces, its exterior beauty and surrounding gardens are worth a visit.
A Brief History
Noordeinde Palace has seen over four centuries of history since its initial construction as a medieval farmhouse in 1533. In 1595, Queen Elizabeth I’s envoy bought the property and transformed it into a stately home fit for royalty. However, it wasn’t until 1609 that Prince Frederick Hendrick decided to convert this mansion into his ‘Hof van Oraigne’ or ‘Court of Orange’. Over time, several renovations have been carried out by various monarchs according to their taste.
The palace has served many purposes throughout its existence – from being used as lodgings for visiting royals during international conferences held at The Hague to serving as headquarters during wartime. Today, King Willem-Alexander uses Noordeinde Palace primarily as his working palace where he receives various heads-of-state on state visits.
Architectural Splendour
The architecture of Noordeinde Palace is truly magnificent with elements from different periods reflecting in its design – ranging from Renaissance style introduced by Prince Frederick Hendrick to French Classicism added later on. Notable features include an impressive entrance gate adorned with golden lions holding the coat-of-arms; beautiful sculptures adorning the façade; elegant interiors complete with ornate chandeliers and exquisite frescos; not forgetting lush green gardens surrounding this majestic edifice.
Gardens & Surroundings
No visit to Noordeinde Palace would be complete without a stroll in the palace gardens. The back garden, known as ‘Palace Garden’ or ‘Paleistuin’, is open to the public and offers a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city. Here you can find beautifully manicured lawns, colorful flowerbeds, charming fountains and even peacocks roaming freely.
Close by is Noordeinde Street – one of The Hague’s most fashionable shopping streets dotted with art galleries, antique shops and high-end boutiques. A few steps away from here lies Panorama Mesdag – home to one of world’s largest circular canvases depicting Scheveningen village as it was in 1881.
The Royal Stables
A stone’s throw away from Noordeinde Palace are the Royal Stables which house an impressive collection of royal carriages including the famous Golden Carriage gifted to Queen Wilhelmina on her inauguration day in 1898. These stables also serve as home for horses that pull these carriages during state occasions.
Visiting Noordeinde Palace
While interior tours aren’t offered at Noordeinde Palace due its role as working palace for King Willem-Alexander, visitors can still marvel at its exterior architecture; take leisurely walks in surrounding gardens; shop around Noordeinde Street or visit nearby attractions like Panorama Mesdag and Mauritshuis Museum housing masterpieces by Dutch painters such as Vermeer & Rembrandt.
No matter what brings you to this part of The Hague – whether it’s history, architecture or simply curiosity about royal life – visiting Noordeinde Palace will surely leave you with lasting impressions!
Frequently asked questions
What is the history of Noordeinde Palace?
Noordeinde Palace, located in The Hague, Netherlands, has a rich and storied history. Originally built as a medieval farmhouse in the 16th century, it was later converted into an elegant residence by Willem van de Goudt. It came under royal ownership when Louise de Coligny, the widow of William of Orange bought it for her son Frederick Henry. Over centuries, the palace underwent various renovations and expansions to become what we see today.
What is the current use of Noordeinde Palace?
Noordeinde Palace serves as one of three official palaces belonging to King Willem-Alexander. However, unlike other royal residences that are used for living purposes or state visits only; this palace primarily functions as his working place where he receives foreign diplomats and hosts official receptions. The Royal Stables which house ceremonial horses and carriages are also part of this complex.
Can visitors tour inside Noordeinde Palace?
The interior parts of Noordeinde Palace are not open to public throughout the year due to its role as a working office for King Willem-Alexander. However, there have been instances when interiors were opened during summer months but with limited access on specific dates only. Visitors can still admire its impressive exterior architecture from outside at any time.
What attractions can be found near Noordeinde Palace?
The area surrounding Noordeinde Palace boasts several attractions worth exploring while you’re in The Hague’s city center: ‘Het Paleis’ art gallery right next door showcases contemporary works; ‘Palace Gardens’, situated behind offers peaceful retreat amidst lush greenery while shopping street ‘Noordeine’ nearby features high-end boutiques along with numerous cafes and restaurants providing Dutch culinary experiences.
How can I reach Noordeinde Palace?
Noordeinde Palace is easily accessible via public transport. If you’re coming from The Hague Central Station, tram lines 1 and 17 will take you directly to the Kneuterdijk stop which is a short walk away from the palace. Alternatively, if driving, there are several paid parking facilities nearby like Q-Park Heulstraat or Plein Parking.
