Binnenhof (Inner Court), Hague (must see)

Established in the 13th century as the residence of the Counts of Holland, the Inner Court gradually evolved into the center of national administration. Unlike many former royal compounds, it has remained in continuous use, making it one of the oldest parliamentary complexes still functioning in the world. The site developed around a courtyard bordered by administrative buildings.

As you enter the courtyard, move toward the center: the Knight’s Hall stands directly ahead, easy to recognize by its two towers and pointed Gothic roof. Walk around to the far side of the complex, toward the water, and you’ll reach the edge of the lake. From here, turn slightly to your right: the small medieval Little Tower, used by the Prime Minister, sits right at the water’s edge.

Stand facing the lake with the Little Tower in front of you. Immediately to its left is the Treaty Room, used for Cabinet meetings. Continue along the same waterfront edge and you’ll pass the Senate chamber, located in the older wing facing the Hofvijver. The House of Representatives is not in the historic core but in a more modern extension connected to the complex, set slightly back from the courtyard.

Return to the courtyard and walk along its perimeter to take in the layout: cobblestone paving underfoot, modest façades enclosing the space, and narrow passages linking the different wings. Today, the Inner Court remains the political heart of The Hague. It hosts the annual Prince’s Day ceremony, when the monarch delivers the Speech from the Throne in the Knight’s Hall. The complex is currently undergoing a large-scale renovation aimed at preserving its historic structures.