Peace Palace

Peace Palace The Hague: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Historical Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands, stands as one of the world’s foremost icons of international peace, justice, and diplomacy. Since its inauguration in 1913, the palace has embodied the global aspiration for resolving conflicts through law rather than violence, housing major institutions such as the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This guide provides a detailed overview of the Peace Palace’s history, significance, visitor information—including visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, guided tours—and tips for enhancing your experience at one of The Hague’s key landmarks. For the most up-to-date details, consult the official Peace Palace website and other reputable resources (denhaag.nl; uva.nl).

Bassam Abu Sharif speaking at the Palestinian Israeli Conference in the Peace Palace The Hague

Close-up photograph of a bronze object related to Het Vredespaleis in Den Haag

Exterior view of Het Vredespaleis (Peace Palace) in Den Haag, The Netherlands

Close-up view of a decorative object associated with Het Vredespaleis in Den Haag, The Netherlands

Plaque with inscription related to Het Vredespaleis in Den Haag Netherlands

Antique object related to Het Vredespaleis in Den Haag, The Netherlands

Embroidery artwork representing Het Vredespaleis in Den Haag, The Netherlands

Carnegie Stichting charter of foundation document from 1903

Blue cigar box related to Het Vredespaleis in Den Haag The Netherlands

Carnegie's Peace Palace and youth painting by Adri Bleuland van Oordt oil on canvas

Vintage chocolate tin can labeled Chocolade Fabriek JA Krul

Metal box from Chocolade Fabriek JA Krul related to Het Vredespaleis in Den Haag

Laying the first stone of the Peace Palace in The Hague with financier Andrew Carnegie present, July 30, 1907

South Moluccan demonstrators clashing and forcing a gate at the Peace Palace in The Hague during protest on December 27, 1974

1974 demonstration by South Moluccans in The Hague near Peace Palace resulting in clashes among protesters

Trowel and hammer used at the laying of the first stone of the Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands, 1907

Ceremonial laying of the first stone of the Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands, 1907

WWI propaganda postcard with Peace Flag waving above the Peace Palace in The Hague

Laying of the first stone for the Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands on July 30, 1907

Ets van Rensburg artwork related to Het Vredespaleis in Den Haag

Close-up of a French medal related to the Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands

Close-up of a medal featuring the Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands

Commemorative plaque for the 1st food dropping at Het Vredespaleis in Den Haag, The Netherlands

Herman van Veen carrying the world torch on the way to Prince Claus at the Peace Palace in The Hague during the First Earth Run on October 3, 1986

Herman van Veen holding the world torch walking towards Prince Claus during the First Earth Run at the Peace Palace in The Hague, 1986

Peace Palace in The Hague under construction viewed from a nearby building in 1911

Architectural design drawing of the Peace Palace by L.M. Cordonnier in 1906

The second Peace Conference held in The Hague in 1907 with the ceremonial laying of the first stone by Russian Baron de Nelidow

Laying the cornerstone of the Peace Palace by Mr. Henri Viotta with top hat in The Hague, 1907

Illustrated double-page spread of the Peace Palace in The Hague, opening in 1913

Aerial view of the Peace Palace in The Hague with surrounding houses and garden layouts on April 18, 1925, featuring a small airplane HNACK in the center flown by three aviators during their return flight from Paris

Cardboard advertising board for Carnegie cigars related to Het Vredespaleis in The Hague

Cardboard advertising board for Carnegie cigars at Het Vredespaleis in The Hague, Netherlands

Vintage cardboard advertisement board for Carnegie cigars found near Het Vredespaleis in The Hague, Netherlands

Crown Prince Akihito of Japan visiting the Peace Palace in The Hague in 1953

Historical Background
Visitor Information
Nearby Attractions in The Hague
Visitor Experience and Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
References and Sources

Historical Background

Origins and Vision

The Peace Palace originated from the First Hague Peace Conference in 1899, where Tsar Nicholas II of Russia proposed a venue for peaceful dispute resolution. Delegates from 26 nations met in The Hague, leading to the creation of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA)—the first global institution dedicated to the peaceful settlement of international disputes (Peace Palace History; PCA History).

The Second Hague Peace Conference in 1907 expanded on this vision, reinforcing The Hague’s role as the “legal capital of the world” and laying the foundation stone for the Peace Palace itself (culture.ec.europa.eu).

Construction and Philanthropy

Andrew Carnegie, the renowned philanthropist, donated $1.5 million in 1904 to construct the Peace Palace. French architect Louis Cordonnier’s neo-Renaissance and neo-classical design was selected, and the project included a world-class library for international law. The palace was built between 1907 and 1913, with Queen Wilhelmina presiding over its inauguration (onthisday.com; wikipedia.org).

Institutional Importance

The Peace Palace has continuously hosted leading international legal institutions: the PCA, the International Court of Justice (since 1946), the Hague Academy of International Law, and the Peace Palace Library. Together, these entities have cemented the palace’s reputation as a global hub of peace and the rule of law (wikipedia.org; Peace Palace Library).

Symbolism and Global Contributions

The palace is adorned with gifts from nations worldwide—Japanese wall hangings, Turkish carpets, Italian marble, and a Danish fountain—each symbolizing international cooperation. The eternal peace flame, installed in 2002, and the World Peace Flame Pathway, featuring stones from 196 countries, further emphasize this global mission (Stayokay).

Contemporary Role

The Peace Palace remains an active center for international legal proceedings and education. Its enduring legacy is recognized by the European Heritage Label, affirming its pivotal role in European and global history (EHL Peace Palace).

Visitor Information

Location and Access

Address: Carnegieplein 2, 2517 KJ The Hague, Netherlands
Transport: Easily accessible by tram (lines 1, 9, 16), bus, bicycle, or on foot from city center. Den Haag Centraal and Den Haag HS train stations are nearby (Trip.com).

Visiting Hours

Visitor Centre: Open Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:00 (check official website for seasonal changes and holiday closures).
Guided Tours: Available only on select dates/times; advance booking required via the official website. Tours are suspended during court sessions.

Tickets

Visitor Centre: Free admission; donations welcome.
Guided Tours: €11–€15 (adults); discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Children may be free/discounted. Tickets must be booked in advance.

Accessibility

Visitor Centre: Wheelchair accessible, with adapted restrooms and ramps.
Main Building/Gardens: Limited accessibility; mobility scooters not permitted. Service dogs are allowed.

Security and Facilities

Security: Bag checks at entry; large bags and backpacks may not be allowed.
Facilities: Gift shop (books, souvenirs), restrooms. No on-site café, but cafés and restaurants nearby.

Nearby Attractions in The Hague

Mauritshuis Museum: Home to Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring”
Binnenhof: Historic seat of Dutch parliament
Panorama Mesdag: 360° panoramic painting of Scheveningen
Madurodam: Miniature park of Dutch landmarks
Scheveningen Beach: Seaside resort area

All are accessible by public transport or within walking distance (Earth Trekkers; Travel Earth).

Visitor Experience and Tips

Start at the Visitor Centre: Engage with interactive exhibitions, a free audio tour (multiple languages), historical artifacts, and a short film on the palace’s construction and legacy.
Guided Tours: Rarely available; book early for access to the Great Hall of Justice, Small Courtroom, and library.
Photography: Permitted outside and in Visitor Centre; prohibited inside the palace during tours.
World Peace Flame: A must-see at the entrance, with stones from every country—perfect for reflection and photos.
Dress and Conduct: Respectful attire and behavior are expected, as the Palace is an active international legal venue.
Best visiting time: Early afternoon fits well with a walking tour of central The Hague.
Visit Duration: Plan 30–60 minutes for the Visitor Centre; guided tours last about 45–60 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the Peace Palace visiting hours?
The Visitor Centre is open Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:00. Guided tours are only on select dates and times; check the official website.

How do I book Peace Palace tickets?
Guided tour tickets must be booked in advance online via the official Peace Palace website.

Is the Peace Palace wheelchair accessible?
The Visitor Centre is accessible; the main building and gardens have limited access. Contact the palace in advance for specific needs.

Are photos allowed inside the Peace Palace?
Photography is permitted outside and in the Visitor Centre. It is not allowed inside during tours.

Are guided tours available year-round?
No, tours are offered only on select days, mainly in spring and summer, depending on court schedules.

What facilities are available?
Restrooms and a gift shop are available at the Visitor Centre. No café on-site, but options nearby.

References and Sources

Plan your visit to the Peace Palace and explore the heart of international justice in The Hague. For updated hours, tickets, and events, always refer to the official Peace Palace website. Enhance your experience with the Audiala app for immersive audio guides and travel tips.