Exterior view of Cellenbarakken of Strafgevangenis Scheveningen prison with surrounding prison wall

Oranjehotel

Oranjehotel Visiting Hours, Tickets, and History Guide – The Hague

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Oranjehotel, set in The Hague’s Scheveningen district, stands as a poignant national monument reflecting Dutch resilience during World War II. Originally a pre-war prison, it became infamous under Nazi occupation (1940–1945) as the primary detention site for resistance fighters, Jews, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and other persecuted groups. The name “Oranjehotel” honors the Dutch royal House of Orange and symbolizes hope and defiance. Today, the site operates as the Nationaal Monument Oranjehotel, preserving its original cells—most notably “Cell 601”—and offering immersive exhibitions that explore both personal and collective stories of resistance. Its proximity to significant sites such as Waalsdorpervlakte execution dunes, the Peace Palace, and Scheveningen beach further situates it within The Hague’s rich historical landscape (oranjehotel.org, scheveningen.com).

Dutch couple sitting with books and a thermos bottle outside the Huis van Bewaring prison in The Hague after WWII liberation, witnessing the imprisonment of Mussert, Blokzijl, and Huygen

Couple watching the imprisonment of collaborators during the liberation of The Hague in May 1945

Memorial event at Oranjehotel in Scheveningen, October 14, 1961, black and white photograph

Commemoration ceremony at Oranjehotel in Scheveningen with attendees seated, October 14, 1961

Portrait of Johann (Hans) Schweiger, SS-Hauptschafführer and deputy head of Scheveningen and Vught police prisons during World War II

Queen Juliana unveiling a war memorial at the Oranjehotel prison in Scheveningen on September 16, 1950

Queen Juliana unveiling a war monument at the Oranjehotel prison in Scheveningen on September 16, 1950

Queen Juliana unveiling a monument at the Oranjehotel in Scheveningen on September 16, 1950

Aerial view of Oranjehotel prison in Scheveningen

Historical Background and Wartime Role
Origins and Construction
Nazi Occupation and the Prison’s Role
Symbolism and Resistance
Notable Prisoners
Visiting the Oranjehotel: Practical Information
Visiting Hours
Tickets and Admission
Getting There
Accessibility
Facilities and Guidelines
Guided Tours and Special Events
Nearby Attractions
Why Visit the Oranjehotel?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Visitor Tips
Sources and Further Reading

Historical Background and Wartime Role

Origins and Construction

Built as a prison in Scheveningen before WWII, the facility was quickly repurposed by the Nazis after the invasion of the Netherlands in May 1940. Under occupation, it became the central detention center for those suspected of resistance or viewed as enemies of the regime (hannahbyron.com).

Nazi Occupation and Role of the Oranjehotel

From 1940 to 1945, over 25,000 prisoners—ranging from political dissidents and resistance fighters to Jews and Jehovah’s Witnesses—were held within its walls. Conditions were harsh, and many faced torture, interrogation, or execution, with the notorious “Cell 601” reserved for those awaiting execution at Waalsdorpervlakte (faculty.webster.edu, hannahbyron.com).

Symbolism and Resistance

Despite the oppressive environment, the Oranjehotel became a symbol of Dutch resilience. The nickname itself was a quiet act of defiance, signaling loyalty to the royal family and the values of freedom. Prisoners left messages on the walls and engaged in symbolic acts of resistance, such as wearing orange carnations—an emblem of the House of Orange (hannahbyron.com).

Notable Prisoners

The Oranjehotel held many prominent figures whose stories are now central to Dutch remembrance:

Erik Hazelhoff Roelfzema (“Soldier of Orange”) – Resistance leader and author whose memoir inspired the famous musical (museum.nl).
Corrie ten Boom – Imprisoned for sheltering Jews; author of “The Hiding Place” (oranjehotel.org).
Titus Brandsma – Carmelite priest and later Catholic saint, known for opposing Nazi policies (museum.nl).
Rudolph Cleveringa – Law professor who protested the dismissal of Jewish colleagues (tracesofwar.com).
George Maduro – Resistance fighter; commemorated by Madurodam (museum.nl).
Anton de Kom – Surinamese writer and anti-colonial activist (oranjehotel.org).

Hundreds of others, including Jehovah’s Witnesses, Jews, artists, and writers, suffered imprisonment and, in many cases, execution. The memorial “Doodenboek” records the names of more than 250 executed at Waalsdorpervlakte (museum.nl).

Visiting the Oranjehotel: Practical Information

Visiting Hours

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Mondays, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day
Tip: Check the official website for seasonal adjustments and special event schedules.

Tickets and Admission

Adults: €10
Seniors & Students: €7
Children (under 12): Free
Guided Tours: Available for an additional fee; book ahead online or at the entrance.
Payment: Debit card only.
Reservations: Highly recommended during weekends, holidays, and commemorative events (oranjehotel.org).

Getting There

Address: Van Alkemadelaan 1258, 2597 BP, The Hague
Public Transport: Tram lines 9 & 11, Bus lines 22 & 23; nearest stop: Duinkerksestraat
Car: Limited parking on-site. Nearby paid parking available; discounted tickets for APCOA Parking Strand garage can be purchased at the museum.
Cycling: Ample bicycle parking available.
Accessibility: The site is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Wheelchairs are available for loan.

Facilities and Guidelines

Café: Light refreshments and drinks.
Museum Shop: Books, postcards, and educational materials.
Restrooms & Cloakroom: Available on site.
Languages: Dutch and English; additional language support on request.
Photography: Permitted, but respect restrictions in memorial and sensitive areas. No flash photography.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided Tours: Offered in Dutch and English, especially on weekends and by appointment for groups and schools. Tours deepen understanding of prisoner stories and the resistance movement.
Educational Programs: Tailored workshops for students and groups.
Commemorative Events: Annual ceremonies, notably on May 4th (Dutch Remembrance Day), may affect opening hours (oranjehotel.org).
Digital and Virtual Resources: Virtual tours and online exhibits available for remote visitors.

Nearby Attractions

Waalsdorpervlakte: WWII execution site and memorial, easily combined with a museum visit.
Scheveningen Beach: Historic seaside destination, a short walk away.
Peace Palace, Mauritshuis, Madurodam: Prominent historical and cultural sites within easy reach (scheveningen.com, denhaag.com).

Why Visit the Oranjehotel?

The Oranjehotel offers visitors a direct, emotional connection to the stories of those who endured and resisted Nazi oppression. Its preserved cells, personal testimonies, and evocative exhibitions foster remembrance, education, and moral reflection. As a central part of The Hague’s history, the site serves both as a tribute to freedom and a warning against the dangers of totalitarianism.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are tickets required for entry?
A: Yes, tickets are required for all visitors except children under 12. Guided tours require separate booking (oranjehotel.org).

Q: What are the Oranjehotel visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:30 AM–5:00 PM; closed Mondays and select holidays.

Q: Is the site accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, the museum is fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms.

Q: Can I visit the Waalsdorpervlakte from the Oranjehotel?
A: Yes, it’s nearby and often included in guided tours.

Q: Are there special events?
A: Yes, especially on May 4th (Remembrance Day) and during special exhibitions.

Summary and Visitor Tips

The Oranjehotel stands as a compelling witness to the courage and suffering of those who resisted Nazi tyranny. Its immersive exhibitions, preserved cells, and memorial spaces invite deep reflection. With modern facilities, accessibility, and an array of educational resources, the Oranjehotel is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, human rights, or Dutch culture.

Tips for a Meaningful Visit:

Book tickets in advance, especially for guided tours or during commemorative events.
Allow at least 1.5–2 hours for your visit.
Use the audio guide or join a tour for deeper engagement.
Respect the solemn atmosphere, particularly in memorial areas.
Combine your visit with other historic sites in The Hague for a richer experience.

Plan your visit and learn more: