Huis ten Bosch Palace
The Hague
- Built
- 1645-1652
- Architect
- Pieter Post
- Style
- Dutch Classicism
- Royal house
- The Dutch Royal House
Huis ten Bosch is the official residence of the Dutch Royal Family, beautifully situated in the Haagse Bos forest in The Hague. The palace was built between 1645 and 1652 for Amalia van Solms, widow of Stadtholder Frederick Henry of Orange.
The palace is best known for its impressive Oranjezaal (Orange Hall), an octagonal hall with a ceiling decorated with allegorical paintings honoring Frederick Henry. This hall is considered one of the most significant Baroque interiors in Northern Europe.
In 1899, Huis ten Bosch hosted the first international peace conference, laying the foundation for The Hague as an international center of justice. During World War II, the palace was severely damaged by German occupiers.
King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima have lived at Huis ten Bosch since 2019, following an extensive renovation costing approximately 63 million euros. The palace is not open to the public, but the Oranjezaal can be visited on special occasions.