Binnenhof

In 1229, Count Floris IV built a small hunting lodge on the shore of Lake Hofvijver. He liked spending time there with his entourage. The house gradually expanded and, by the end of the 13th century, it had turned into the complex of Binnenhof. The name is literally translated as “inner courtyard.”

Initially, the Binnenhof was a residence of counts. However, it was private property for a relatively short time. In the 16th century, this building became the political centre of the Dutch Republic. Since then, all meetings of the chambers of government have taken place here.

The old Hague centre occupied by the Binnenhof complex is among the top 100 attractions in the country. It is not a surprise because a relatively small area accommodates architectural masterpieces of different times, from the 13th to the 19th centuries. Where else can you walk through history and see how people’s tastes changed?

In the very centre of the Binnenhof, there is the knight’s hall Ridderzaal. Its construction was over in 1280. It was erected by two wealthy count families who originally planned it for holding holidays, not living.

But even this was not the point. The families wanted to amaze everyone with their importance. So they built this beautiful castle along with a separate ceremonial hall made in such a lovely style and from expensive materials.

By the mid-17th century, knights in the Netherlands died out, and theme celebrations became less interesting to the public. So, the need for the Ridderzaal also decreased. At first, it was used for household needs. Then there were book piles. For a long time, people gathered here to take part in lotteries. During the French rule, the Ridderzaal housed a military gym. So, by the end of the 19th century, the interior and exterior had been in a bad state of disrepair.

However, at the end of the 19th century, everything old was back in fashion. The hall was put back in shape. Now, every third Thursday of September, the monarch gives a speech here, opening the parliamentary session with his speech.