George Maduro

George Maduro and Madurodam: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites in The Hague

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Madurodam, located in the vibrant city of The Hague, Netherlands, is more than just a miniature park—it is a dynamic living memorial dedicated to George John Lionel Maduro, a Dutch World War II hero. Celebrated for his courage and sacrifice during the German occupation, Maduro’s legacy is immortalized in this unique attraction. Madurodam offers meticulously crafted 1:25 scale models of iconic Dutch landmarks, engaging interactive exhibits, and immersive storytelling that brings the country’s history and culture to life.

Founded in 1952 by George Maduro’s parents, the park was designed to memorialize his heroism and celebrate Dutch resilience and innovation. Today, Madurodam serves as an educational platform, a family-friendly amusement destination, and a charitable institution supporting youth across the Netherlands. With recent expansions and innovative attractions debuting in 2025, Madurodam continues to evolve, ensuring a rewarding experience for all visitors.

This guide provides detailed information on George Maduro’s life, the significance of Madurodam, practical tips for visiting—including hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions—and advice for making the most of your experience. For the latest updates and resources, refer to the official Madurodam website, The Hague Online, and Holland Dreams.

The Life and Legacy of George Maduro
Madurodam: Monument and Miniature City
Interactive Experiences and Thematic Zones
Charitable and Educational Impact
New Developments in 2025
Practical Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

The Life and Legacy of George Maduro

George John Lionel Maduro was born on July 15, 1916, in Willemstad, Curaçao, to a prominent Sephardic Jewish family. His father, Joshua Maduro, managed S.E.L. Maduro & Sons and was active in the financial sector (Universiteit Leiden). George was sent to The Hague for his education and attended the Netherlands Lyceum before enrolling at Leiden University to study law in 1934.

With the outbreak of World War II, Maduro served as a reserve second lieutenant in the Dutch cavalry. During the German invasion in May 1940, he led a successful counterattack against German paratroopers at Villa Leeuwenbergh, capturing the villa and its occupants—a rare Dutch victory at the time (Traces of War). After the Dutch surrender, Maduro was imprisoned but released. Refusing to comply with Nazi orders requiring Jews to wear the Star of David, he went underground and joined the resistance, helping smuggle Allied pilots and Jewish refugees to safety (Cliff Villa). In 1943, Maduro was betrayed and arrested, eventually dying of typhus in Dachau concentration camp in 1945. His heroism is commemorated both at Madurodam and through his posthumous award of the Military Order of William.

Madurodam: Monument and Miniature City

Commemoration and Purpose

Madurodam was established in 1952 as a living memorial to George Maduro and as a tribute to Dutch resilience (Wikipedia: George Maduro). With initial funding from the Maduro family and a vision shared by Bep Boon-van der Starp, the park was designed to honor Maduro’s legacy and support charitable causes for children and youth (Blooloop: Madurodam). Proceeds are donated to the Madurodam Support Fund, supporting youth projects throughout the Netherlands.

Location and Accessibility

Madurodam is located at George Maduroplein 1, 2584 RZ, The Hague, in the Scheveningen district. It is easily reached by tram, bus, bicycle, or car, with on-site parking available (girlswanderlust.com). The park is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible, with ramps, elevators, and free wheelchairs available by advance reservation.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Standard Hours: Madurodam is open 365 days a year, typically from 10:00 or 11:00 to 17:00 or 18:00, with extended hours in peak seasons (madurodam.nl).
Last Entry: One hour before closing.
Tickets: Online tickets are recommended for savings and to avoid queues. As of 2025, adult tickets are €22.50 online and €24.50 at the entrance, with discounted rates for children and groups. Children under 3 enter free (girlswanderlust.com).
Parking: On-site parking is available for €10–€12.50 per day.

Visitor Amenities

Dining: Multiple cafes and restaurants offer Dutch snacks and meals, with picnic areas available (Holland Dreams guide).
Facilities: Free WiFi, lockers, baby changing stations, accessible restrooms, and souvenir shops.
Digital Resources: The Madurodam app provides interactive maps, audio guides, AR features, and self-guided tours (madurodam.nl).

Park Layout and Attractions

Madurodam covers 1.77 acres and features over 300 scale models of Dutch landmarks, cities, and infrastructure:

Royal Palace of Amsterdam
Rijksmuseum
Peace Palace
Amsterdam’s canals
Rotterdam’s Erasmus Bridge
Tulip fields and windmills
Schiphol Airport (with moving planes)
Port of Rotterdam (with working cranes and ships)
Miniature of George Maduro’s birth house and monument (denhaag.com)

Models are built using original blueprints and maintained to reflect real-world changes (whichmuseum.com).

Interactive Experiences and Thematic Zones

City Centre: Explore Dutch Parliament buildings and cultural icons.
Water World: Interactive exhibits demonstrate the Netherlands’ mastery of water management.
Innovation Island: Showcases Dutch creativity and modern engineering.
Hands-On Activities: Operate cranes, weigh cheese, or generate windmill power.
Digital App: Enhance your visit with detailed stories, AR, and navigation.

Children particularly enjoy two themed playgrounds: a ship-themed Waddenzee area and a Miffy (Nijntje) play zone.

Charitable and Educational Impact

Madurodam’s proceeds support the Madurodam Support Fund, benefitting youth-focused projects across the Netherlands. The park also features educational displays, storytelling, and a youth city council that participates in park management and charitable grant decisions (The Hague Online).

New Developments in 2025

Recent and planned additions include the Rivierenland splash and play meadow—an interactive water-play area inspired by Dutch river landscapes—and Madurodam’s first indoor dark ride, expanding the park’s appeal for families (The Hague Online).

Practical Visitor Tips

Plan Ahead: Purchase tickets online and reserve parking or wheelchairs in advance.
Best Times: Visit on weekday mornings or late afternoons for fewer crowds.
Weather: Prepare for variable Dutch weather; dress in layers and bring rain gear.
Photography: Capture iconic spots like the XL Clog, Miffy, and tulip displays.
Duration: Most visitors spend 2–3 hours, but there is no time limit.
Pets: Only guide dogs are allowed; kennels can be reserved for other pets (Holland Dreams guide).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are dogs allowed in Madurodam?
A: Only guide or assistance dogs are permitted inside. Other pets can be boarded in free kennel facilities with advance reservation.

Q: Is Madurodam wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and free wheelchairs available.

Q: Where can I buy tickets?
A: Tickets are best purchased online for convenience and discounts.

Q: What are the best times to visit?
A: Weekday mornings or late afternoons are less crowded. Spring and summer are especially pleasant.

Q: How long does a visit last?
A: Most visitors spend 2–3 hours, but you may stay as long as you like.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours and audio guides are available via the Madurodam app.

Conclusion

Madurodam stands as a vibrant tribute to Dutch history, innovation, and the enduring legacy of George Maduro. With its blend of miniature wonders, interactive exhibits, and a commitment to education and charity, it offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a family seeking fun and learning, or a traveler exploring The Hague, Madurodam is a must-visit attraction.

For the latest opening hours, ticket options, and tips, visit the official Madurodam website or consult trusted travel sources such as The Hague Online and Holland Dreams. Enhance your visit by downloading the Madurodam app and planning ahead for an unforgettable journey through Dutch history in miniature.