Nestled in the heart of The Hague, Kneuterdijk Palace, or Paleis Kneuterdijk as it is known locally, stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural elegance of the Netherlands. This former city palace, built in 1717 in the opulent Louis XIV style, offers visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of a bygone era, while still serving a vital role in contemporary Dutch governance.
The origins of Kneuterdijk Palace trace back to the influential Van Wassenaer family, who commissioned the renowned architect Daniël Marot to design a new home to replace their old family house. Marot, celebrated for his Baroque style, infused the palace with the grandeur befitting its noble owners. Johan Hendrik van Wassenaer Obdam was the original patron, and following his death, the property passed to his brother, Unico Wilhelm.
In 1816, the palace entered a new chapter when it was sold to King William I, who gifted it to his son, the future King William II. Under the guidance of architect Jan de Greef, the palace underwent significant renovations to incorporate neoclassical elements, including columns and friezes, reflecting the tastes of the time. The addition of a grand ballroom with solid white marble columns further enhanced its majestic appeal.
King William II, an art aficionado, expanded the palace to house his extensive collection of masterpieces by artists such as Michelangelo, Titian, Rubens, and Rembrandt. Inspired by Christ Church, Oxford, where he studied during the English exile of the House of Orange, William II commissioned the construction of the Gothic Hall to accommodate his treasures. This hall remains today, a testament to his artistic vision.
The Gothic Hall, inaugurated in 1842 during the wedding of Princess Sophie, is a highlight for visitors. It stands as the only surviving part of the palace's 19th-century extensions, its historical significance underscored by its role in hosting royal ceremonies and events.
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After King William II's death, the palace saw varied uses, including serving as the headquarters for the Red Cross and later as the office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Princess Juliana also utilized the palace for the National Crisis Committee during the economic hardships of the 1930s.
Following World War II, Kneuterdijk Palace played a pivotal role in the Dutch post-war justice system, hosting nearly 4,000 war crime trials. Today, it forms part of the complex housing the Council of State, an essential body in Dutch governance, after extensive renovations completed in 2011.
A visit to Kneuterdijk Palace would be incomplete without experiencing the Gothic Hall. This architectural marvel, with its intricate design and historical resonance, also hosts musical performances, thanks to the restoration of the Bätz organ. Originally commissioned by King William II in 1841, the organ returned to the hall in 1990, and its melodious tones now enhance the cultural offerings of the palace.
Behind the palace lies the serene French garden, a remnant of the original royal grounds that once stretched to the Mauritskade. Open to the public year-round, the garden is adorned with sculptures, providing a
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