De Kroon.

Introduction

De Kroon stands as a defining feature of The Hague’s skyline—a modern skyscraper that encapsulates the city’s blend of historic heritage and contemporary urbanism. Completed in 2011 by the Dutch architectural firm Rapp+Rapp, this 131-meter, 41-floor mixed-use tower is located in the vibrant Wijnhavenkwartier district, strategically positioned between The Hague Central Station and the Spui. De Kroon integrates residential apartments, office spaces, and retail outlets, making it both an architectural and urban landmark (Skyscraper Center; Archello).

While interior access is generally restricted, De Kroon’s lively commercial spaces and distinctive glass façade can be explored and admired from surrounding public areas. This guide covers all you need to know about visiting De Kroon, including practical information on accessibility, hours, tickets, nearby attractions, and tips for making the most out of your visit.

History and Architecture

De Kroon was erected on the site of the former Zwarte Madonna, a notable residential building demolished in 2007. Its construction was part of a broader initiative to revitalize The Hague’s city center. Rapp+Rapp’s design draws inspiration from early American skyscrapers, especially those of Chicago, evident in the building’s setbacks and tripartite composition (base, shaft, capital). The result is a structure that harmonizes with neighboring government and commercial buildings while asserting its own modern identity (Archello).

Key features:

• Height: 131 meters, 41 floors
• Mixed-Use Program: Residential apartments (253 units), office spaces, retail outlets
• Architectural Flourish: The illuminated “crown” at the top, visible across The Hague by night
• Sustainable Design: High-performance glazing, energy-efficient systems, and maximized natural light

De Kroon’s design supports The Hague’s vision for a compact, multifunctional urban core, seamlessly integrating with transport hubs and city infrastructure.

Visiting De Kroon: Practical Information

Accessibility and Getting There

• Location: Turfmarkt 120/107, Wijnhavenkwartier, The Hague
• Public Transport: Steps from Den Haag Centraal (main railway station); multiple tram and bus lines serve the area
• Pedestrian & Cycling: Easily reached by foot or bike, with ample bike racks available
• Parking: Public garages are nearby, but spaces can be limited during peak hours

The area is wheelchair-friendly, with barrier-free entrances and smooth pavements.

Public Entry and Visiting Hours

• Exterior and Public Spaces: Open 24/7 for viewing and photography
• Lobby and Commercial Areas: Typically accessible Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM (individual business hours may vary)
• Upper Floors: Restricted to residents, office tenants, and authorized personnel

Tickets and Entry Fees

• No tickets or entry fees are required for admiring De Kroon’s exterior or accessing the ground-floor commercial spaces.
• Special Events: During events like Open Monumentendag or the annual “Dag van de Architectuur,” limited public access or guided tours may be available. Check The Hague’s tourism pages for announcements.

Guided Tours

• Regular Tours: Not available due to privacy and security reasons.
• Special Events: Sometimes, guided architectural tours or open days include De Kroon in their itinerary.
• Local Architecture Tours: Many walking tours of The Hague’s modern landmarks stop at De Kroon for exterior insights (DutchReview).

Photography Tips

• Best Time: Early morning and sunset, when the crown is illuminated and the glass façade catches the changing light.
• Vantage Points: The pedestrianized Turfmarkt, Malieveld park, and surrounding streets provide excellent views. For panoramic cityscapes, visit nearby towers or The Hague Tower (Earth Trekkers).
• Note: Interior photography is restricted to public areas.

Nearby Attractions

De Kroon’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring The Hague’s historical and cultural highlights:

• Binnenhof: Historic seat of the Dutch government (9-minute walk)
• Mauritshuis: Art museum with works by Vermeer and Rembrandt (10-minute walk)
• Escher in Het Paleis: Museum dedicated to M.C. Escher (12-minute walk)
• De Passage: Historic shopping arcade with cafés and boutiques (11-minute walk)
• Hofvijver: Iconic city pond and scenic photo spot (10-minute walk)
• Grote Marktstraat: Main shopping street with a vibrant atmosphere

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I enter De Kroon’s residential or office areas?
A: Public access is restricted to the lobby and commercial spaces unless special events are announced.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Regular tours are not offered, but special events or city architecture tours may include De Kroon.

Q: Is De Kroon wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, public areas and the surrounding district are wheelchair friendly.

Q: Do I need tickets to visit De Kroon?
A: No tickets are needed for the exterior or ground-floor areas. Tickets are only required for special events.

Q: When is the best time to photograph De Kroon?
A: Sunset is ideal for capturing the illuminated crown; early mornings and evenings are also recommended for quieter visits.