Sint Paschalis Baylonkerk

Sint-Paschalis Baylonkerk The Hague: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in The Hague’s leafy Benoordenhout district, the Sint-Paschalis Baylonkerk stands as a remarkable example of early 20th-century Dutch Catholic architecture and spiritual heritage. Designed by the renowned architect Alexander J. Kropholler between 1919 and 1921, this national monument exemplifies traditionalist design, liturgical innovation, and artistic craftsmanship. Today, it not only serves as an active Roman Catholic parish but also welcomes visitors from across the globe, reflecting The Hague’s cosmopolitan character as the “International City of Peace and Justice.”

This comprehensive guide provides essential information for planning your visit, including opening hours, ticketing, accessibility, guided tours, and travel tips. Additionally, it explores the church’s historical context, architectural highlights, artistic treasures, and its integration into the vibrant fabric of The Hague. For the most up-to-date information, consult the official parish website and The Hague’s tourism portal.

Introduction and Historical Overview
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Architectural & Artistic Highlights
Parish Life and Community Activities
Location, Travel Tips, and Nearby Attractions
Visitor Experience and Practical Tips
Suggested Itinerary Integration
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
References

Historical Overview

The Hague (Den Haag) has a complex religious history, evolving from a medieval hunting lodge to a hub of international diplomacy (Den Haag Official History). Catholicism, once suppressed after the Reformation, saw a resurgence in the 19th and 20th centuries. Sint-Paschalis Baylonkerk was established in response to the city’s growing Catholic population and is now part of the RK Parochie Maria Sterre der Zee (RK Parochie Maria Sterre der Zee).

Named for the Spanish Franciscan lay brother and Eucharistic devotee Paschalis Baylon, the church has long functioned as both a place of worship and a cultural beacon for the local and international community.

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours:
- Sundays: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (during Mass and open church hours)
- Weekdays: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Additional hours for special events and guided tours may be available. Always check the official parish website for the latest updates.
Admission:
- Entry is free. Donations are kindly encouraged to support the church’s maintenance and community work.
Accessibility:
- The church is wheelchair accessible, with ramps at the main entrance and accessible restroom facilities. However, some narrower aisles may limit movement for larger mobility devices.
Guided Tours:
- Guided tours are available by appointment, especially during open monument days and special events. To arrange a tour, contact the parish office through parish.nl.
Photography:
- Photography is permitted, but please avoid flash and be respectful during religious services.

Architectural & Artistic Highlights

Site and Urban Context

Located at the intersection of Wassenaarseweg and Neuhuyskade, the church sits on a prominent, nearly-square plot, its tower commanding the street corner and visible from Jozef Israëlsplein (denhaag.com). The design harmonizes with surrounding residential buildings, several of which were also designed by Kropholler, reinforcing the area’s architectural unity.

Traditionalist Design and Innovations

Architect: Alexander J. Kropholler (1881–1973)
Completed: 1921; rectory added in 1927
Style: Traditionalist, with strong influences from H.P. Berlage
Key Features:
- Robust brick construction with natural stone accents
- Steep saddle roof and a square tower with a slender spire
- Diagonal orientation aligning the choir to the east
- Wide nave for optimal altar visibility, reflecting liturgical reforms
- Narrow, dimly lit side aisles and an exposed wooden roof structure

Interior and Liturgical Art

Entrance Relief: Pelican feeding its young, sculpted by Lambertus Zijl, symbolizing Christ’s sacrifice
Liturgical Furnishings:
- Crafted by Jan Eloy and Leo Brom (altar canopy, pulpit, tabernacle, candlesticks, and more)
- Wooden pews, wrought iron chandeliers, and screens designed by Kropholler
Artworks:
- Side altar painting by Lodewijk Schelfhout
- Sculptures by Jacques and Johanna Sprenkels
- Bronze Stations of the Cross by the Brom brothers
Musical Heritage:
- Original organ by T. Jos. H. Vermeulen, with a Flentrop choir organ added in 2009

Symbolism

Throughout the church, Catholic symbols such as the pelican, the Lamb of God, and the Crucified Christ reinforce its spiritual focus (RK Den Haag).

Parish Life and Community Activities

Sint-Paschalis Baylonkerk is a vibrant hub for worship and community:

Multicultural Services: Masses and parish activities in multiple languages, reflecting The Hague’s international population
Community Programs: Catechesis, music ministries, youth groups, and charitable outreach
Social Initiatives: Participation in city-wide festivals, interfaith dialogues, and social justice programs

The parish office, at Koningin Marialaan 2, is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM (closed Wednesdays).

Location, Travel Tips, and Nearby Attractions

Address: Bezuidenhoutseweg 157, The Hague (official address varies, check parish.nl)
Public Transport:
- HTM tram and bus lines stop nearby (Jozef Israëlsplein)
- Approximately 15 minutes from The Hague Central Station
Cycling: Dedicated lanes and bike parking available
Parking: Limited street parking; public transport is recommended

Nearby Attractions

Peace Palace – Iconic seat of international law
Mauritshuis Museum – Masterpieces of Dutch Golden Age painting
Clingendael Park & Japanese Garden – Tranquil green spaces nearby

Visitor Experience and Practical Tips

Dress Code: Modest attire is expected, especially during services
Behavior: Maintain silence and respect for worshippers
Amenities: Restrooms and limited seating available; nearby cafés and bakeries
Weather: Prepare for rain or wind; the church offers a peaceful refuge

Suggested Itinerary Integration

Include Sint-Paschalis Baylonkerk in a half-day itinerary through The Hague’s eastern neighborhoods. Pair your visit with a stroll in Clingendael Park, a tour of the Japanese Garden, or an exploration of the nearby Mauritshuis Museum. The church is easily combined with other city highlights thanks to The Hague’s compact layout and efficient transit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Sint-Paschalis Baylonkerk visiting hours?
A: Sundays 10:00 AM–12:00 PM; weekdays 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Confirm times on the parish website.