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What Is The Hague Famous For?
Are you curious to know what The Hague is famous for? As the governmental centre and residence of the Dutch royal family, The Hague is an iconic and cultural capital of the Netherlands. While the seat of government and political power within the country are based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands often refers to The Hague as its ‘legal capital’. Interested to know more? Keep reading for a comprehensive guide about this famous city and its attraction points.
Royal Residence in The Hague
The Dutch royal family’s main residence, the Paleis Huis Ten Bosch, is located in The Hague. It was built in 1681 by the Dutch States General – the organization of representatives of Dutch provinces that meets twice a year to discuss political, economic and social issues. Queen Beatrix has held her Royal Palace there since 1993 when her family moved from Amsterdam. The State Rooms of the palace have been open to visitors since 2014, and a museum featuring castles and palaces from the Dutch Golden Age exists nearby.
The International City Of Peace and Justice
The Hague is known as the international city of peace and justice, due to its extensive involvement with international law. The city is the seat of numerous international institutions, such as the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, which are both based at the Peace Palace. The Peace Palace is open to visitors and hosts a library of international laws, meaning that it is also known as The City of International Law.
Notable Tourist Attractions in The Hague
The Hague is filled with museums, cultural attractions, beautiful parks and historic buildings, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Netherlands. Some of the most popular tourist sites include Binnenhof – an ancient parliament building sitting on a square in the centre of the city; Madurodam – a miniature theme park featuring scale models of Dutch landmarks; Panorama Mesdag – an enormous cylindrical painting of a beach near Scheveningen; Mauritshuis Museum – home to world renowned artists such as Rembrandt and Johannes Vermeer; and Gemeentemuseum – an art museum focused on modern trends.
Culinary Tour
The Hague is well-known for its selection of restaurants offering international and local cuisines. To sample some incredible food, visitors should check out Plein 1813 for traditional Dutch cuisine, or Restaurant Kombuis for a delicious seafood dish. Another must-try is El Paella, a Spanish restaurant specializing in real paellas. For visitors looking for a sweet treat, Nota Bene Bakery serves a wide range of pastries and cakes, while Tant Meera’s serves tea and treats from India and Pakistan.
Shopping
The Hague is also home to countless famous boutiques and shops, as well as Europe’s oldest shopping mall: De Passage. Many popular fashion brands have stores here, such as Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein and Hugo Boss. Antiques lovers should check out the beautiful Scheveningsz Antiques Centre, while lovers of footwear can visit one of The Hague’s most beloved shoe shops: Boeckel & Schoen.
No visit to The Hague is complete without a trip to Den Haagse Markt. This iconic outdoor marketplace sells everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, fish and more. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or exploring unique stores around town, you’ll be sure to find something special here.
In conclusion, The Hague is famously known as the international city of peace and justice primarily because it hosts numerous organizations dedicated to international law. It is also home to the Dutch royal family’s palace and lots of other popular tourist attractions like Binnenhof and Madurodam. Since there are lots to explore in The Hague when it comes to culture, food and shopping experiences, if you ever find yourself in this region make sure to take in all what it has to offer!
Source: Dutch Review – What is The Hague Famous For?
An Insider’s Guide to The Hague
When most people think of The Hague, they often picture the iconic Peace Palace, which is home to some of the most significant international courts in the world. However, this charming Dutch city has a lot more to offer than just legal proceedings. The Hague dazzles visitors with its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. This insider’s guide will introduce you to some of the city’s hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences, historical tales, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your visit unforgettable.
Local Attractions: Explore The Hague’s Hidden Gems
Next to the better-known museums and parks, The Hague has numerous attractions that might not be in every guidebook. When you visit the city, you can’t miss out on the mesmerizing Panorama Mesdag. Located in the Zeestraat neighborhood, this cylindrical painting offers a stunning 360-degree view of the city and the nearby seaside. Another impressive and often underrated place is the Gemeentemuseum Den Haag. It houses an extensive collection of modern art and is adorned with eye-catching Art Deco architecture.
The Hague is also home to some beautiful parks, like the Westbroekpark or the Clingendael Park. Take a walk through these lush green spaces, and don’t forget to pack some picnic snacks if you need a break.
Dining Spots: Discover The Hague’s Local Cuisine
In The Hague, it’s all about the seafood. You must try Kibbeling, a deep-fried fish snack that’s served with a garlic cream sauce. If you’re feeling experimental, try Haring, a Dutch raw herring that’s served with onions. For lunch, visit a local broodjeszaak (sandwich shop) and order a seafood sandwich known as broodjes tonijnsalade, which features tuna salad, lettuce, and tomato. Additionally, for those who prefer vegetable-based meals, The Hague’s vegan scene is flourishing, with places like Foam or Veggies on Fire.
Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in The Hague’s Local Traditions
Any visit to The Hague should include a trip to the stunning Binnenhof, which is the heart of Dutch politics. Once inside, explore the historical chambers and halls, and feel like you’ve stepped back in time, Moreover, every year, The Hague hosts one of the largest city festivals in the Netherlands, known as The Hague Festivals. Don’t miss this ten-day cultural extravaganza of music, dance, theater, and free outdoor performances.
Local History: From Royal Residences to Secret Spy Places
The Hague has a rich history, and one of the most popular tourist attractions is the famous Noordeinde Palace, which serves as the workplace of the Dutch king and queen. Another picturesque and historical place to visit is the Vredespaleis, also known as the Peace Palace. For those interested in more covert histories, explore the Haagse Binnenstad, where you’ll find secret spy locations and former underground Dutch resistance hideouts.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Beyond The Traditional Tourist Trail
If you’ve already crossed off the well-known attractions on your list, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions for the more adventurous traveler. Take a bike ride towards Scheveningen and lounge by the beach. Take a dip in the sea, devour seafood at the harbor, or watch the sunset at one of the beachside bars. Another thrilling experience is visiting the De Haagse Markt – one of the largest markets in Europe – and get a glimpse of everyday life in The Hague’s multicultural district.
In conclusion, The Hague has a lot to offer, from hidden gems to cultural experiences, local cuisine, historical tales, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Don’t hesitate to wander off the beaten track and uncover some of these unconventional spots!
