Dusk view of Nieuw Babylon building and Centraal train station in Den Haag, Netherlands

New Babylon

New Babylon The Hague: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of The Hague, New Babylon is a striking symbol of urban renewal, architectural innovation, and cultural heritage. Originally built as a utilitarian complex in the late 1970s and early 1980s, New Babylon has evolved into a dynamic, multifunctional landmark—seamlessly blending retail, offices, residences, and cultural venues. Its transformation is a testament to The Hague’s status as an international city of peace, justice, and commerce (EUmies Awards).

The legacy of Dutch artist Constant Nieuwenhuys, whose utopian New Babylon project envisioned a city devoted to creativity and play, is reflected in both the design philosophy and the cultural programming of the area. Contemporary exhibitions at Kunstmuseum Den Haag further celebrate this artistic vision (Kunstmuseum Den Haag). Visitors can enjoy modern amenities, panoramic city views, and easy access via The Hague Central Station.

This guide provides a detailed overview of New Babylon’s history, architectural highlights, visitor information, accessibility, and recommended nearby attractions. Whether an architecture enthusiast, cultural explorer, or local resident, you’ll find practical tips to enhance your visit.

Modern shopping center in The Hague, Netherlands with distinctive architecture

City Tower New Babylon in The Hague black and white architectural photograph

Historical Background and Transformation
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Architectural and Cultural Significance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Key Facts and Figures
Nearby Historical Sites
Constant Nieuwenhuys & the Artistic Legacy
2025 Exhibition: New New Babylon
Summary and Recommendations
Sources and Further Reading

Historical Background and Transformation

Origins and Early Development

The original Babylon complex was constructed next to The Hague Central Station in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Designed as a functional, concrete-heavy structure, it hosted offices, retail, and hospitality venues. While strategically located for business and leisure, the Babylon complex soon felt outdated and underused as the city modernized (EUmies Awards).

The Need for Transformation

By the early 2000s, the need for a comprehensive transformation was clear. The original complex’s dated appearance and inefficient layout no longer matched the ambitions of The Hague as a leading international city. The city sought a vibrant, multifunctional hub that would better serve residents, businesses, and visitors while integrating with the surrounding cityscape and public transport (EUmies Awards).

Vision and Redesign

In 2003, MVSA (Meyer en Van Schooten Architecten) was selected to lead the redevelopment. Their approach focused on maximizing the existing structure’s potential while minimizing demolition and environmental impact. The design embraced the original building, expanding it with two high-rise towers that preserved the core, reduced construction waste, and dramatically increased usable space (EUmies Awards).

Expansion and Mixed-Use Innovation

The redevelopment tripled the complex’s usable floor space—from 44,500 m² to 143,000 m²—while only modestly increasing the footprint. The two towers, rising to 102 and 104 meters, now define the skyline near Central Station. Their lower levels host retail, dining, and public spaces, while upper floors contain modern offices, a conference center, and luxurious residences (EUmies Awards).

Residential Features

The towers offer 335 high-end apartments, ranging from 90 m² to 280 m² penthouses, each with a private balcony or terrace. Residents enjoy exclusive amenities such as concierge services and direct access to the atrium and shopping center, making New Babylon a premier urban address (EUmies Awards).

Public Space Integration

New Babylon is directly linked to The Hague Central Station and Anna van Bueren Square, with an underground parking facility enhancing accessibility. The expansive glass-roofed atrium creates an inviting, light-filled public space for shopping and socializing (EUmies Awards).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours: Public spaces and the shopping mall are open Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM, and Sunday, 12:00 PM–6:00 PM. Office and residential areas are private.
Tickets: Entry to retail and public areas is free. Tickets are only required for special events or the conference center; check the official website for details.
Accessibility: The complex is fully accessible, with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
Getting There: Direct access from The Hague Central Station (train, tram, bus). Underground parking available at Anna van Bueren Square (Babylon Hotel Den Haag).

Architectural and Cultural Significance

New Babylon exemplifies sustainable urban renewal and adaptive reuse. By revitalizing rather than demolishing the original structure, the project set a benchmark for city redevelopment in the Netherlands. The complex’s multifunctional design—combining retail, offices, residences, and public spaces—reflects modern trends in urban living, fostering both economic vitality and community engagement. Its nomination for the 2013 EUmies Awards highlights its architectural importance (EUmies Awards).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for New Babylon?
A: Public areas and shops are open Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM–6:00 PM.

Q: Do I need tickets to enter New Babylon?
A: Entry to public areas is free. Tickets may be required for special events or the conference center.

Q: Is New Babylon accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the entire complex is wheelchair accessible.

Q: How do I get to New Babylon?
A: Adjacent to The Hague Central Station; accessible by train, tram, bus, and car (underground parking available).

Q: Are there dining options?
A: Yes, a variety of restaurants and cafés are located on the lower levels.

Key Facts and Figures

Original Construction: Late 1970s–early 1980s
Transformation Start: 2003
Architectural Firm: MVSA (Meyer en Van Schooten Architecten)
Completion: 2012
Usable Floor Space: 44,500 m² → 143,000 m²
Building Footprint: 7,100 m² → 10,500 m²
Residences: 335 apartments
Tower Heights: 102 m and 104 m
Direct Connection: The Hague Central Station, Anna van Bueren Square (EUmies Awards)

Nearby Historical Sites

Staying at or visiting New Babylon places you within walking distance of The Hague’s most celebrated cultural sites:

Mauritshuis Museum

Collection: Dutch Golden Age paintings, including Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring” and Rembrandt’s masterpieces.
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed Mondays.
Tickets: Online or at the entrance; advance booking recommended.

Binnenhof and Ridderzaal

Significance: Seat of Dutch parliament; Ridderzaal hosts the annual Prinsjesdag event.
Tours: Guided tours Wednesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM–3:00 PM; free (booking advised).

Peace Palace (Vredespaleis)

Role: Home to the International Court of Justice.
Tours: Monday–Friday, 1:30 PM–3:30 PM; tickets must be booked in advance.

Haagsche Bos Park and Buitenhof

Nature: One of the Netherlands’ oldest forests, ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling.
Access: Open daily, free entry.

For further details and tips, see Babylon Hotel Den Haag.

Constant Nieuwenhuys & the Artistic Legacy

Constant Nieuwenhuys’s New Babylon (1956–1974) proposed a utopian city where technology liberated people for creativity and play. His work, blending art, architecture, and social theory, remains influential. The Kunstmuseum Den Haag houses the world’s largest collection of New Babylon models, drawings, and manifestos. The museum’s programming and exhibitions sustain this legacy, positioning The Hague as a center for dialogue on utopian urbanism (Not Bored; Olla Art).

2025 Exhibition: New New Babylon

Kunstmuseum Den Haag’s 2025 exhibition, “New New Babylon: Visions for Another Tomorrow,” invites international artists to explore urban play, ecological futures, and multisensory experience. Highlights include immersive installations like Gayil Nalls’ World Sensorium (Kunstmuseum Den Haag; World Sensorium).

Museum Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed Mondays (except select holidays).
Tickets: €16 adults, free for children under 18, discounts for students and seniors. Book via the Kunstmuseum website.

Summary and Recommendations

New Babylon is a model for sustainable urban transformation, blending historical preservation with contemporary design and functionality. Its proximity to cultural landmarks, robust accessibility, and integration of art and architecture make it a must-visit destination in The Hague. For an enriched experience, combine your visit with guided tours, check for current exhibitions at Kunstmuseum Den Haag, and explore nearby historical treasures.

Travel tips:

Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
Take advantage of the direct connections from The Hague Central Station.
Use official websites and the Audiala app for updated information, guided tours, and travel tips.