Mauritshuis
Zuid-Holland
Mauritshuis is a prestigious art museum located in The Hague, Netherlands, famous for its collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings. The museum is housed in a 17th-century building originally constructed as the residence of Count John Maurice of Nassau, designed in the Dutch Classicist style by architects Jacob van Campen and Pieter Post. It contains 854 objects, including iconic works by Johannes Vermeer, such as "Girl with a Pearl Earring," Rembrandt van Rijn, Jan Steen, Paulus Potter, and Frans Hals. The museum's collection is internationally celebrated for its artistic and historical significance, attracting visitors worldwide. The Mauritshuis has undergone several restorations and expansions, notably between 2012 and 2014, linking it with the nearby Sociëteit de Witte building. It survived WWII with its collection safely stored away from Nazi plunder. The museum offers visitors an immersive experience into the art and culture of the Dutch Golden Age, with a special focus on storytelling through its exhibits and expert-led narratives.
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Tip: Visit Mauritshuis from Tuesday to Sunday between 10:00 and 18:00, and on Monday from 13:00 to 18:00. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Explore the Prince William V Gallery, often referred to as the hidden gem of The Hague. Take advantage of thematic guided tours and special exhibitions to deepen your understanding of the collection. The museum offers various discounts and programs for students, seniors, and groups. Avoid Mondays if you want to see the Prince William V Gallery as it is closed then. Check the official website for the latest updates on opening hours and special events.
Interesting facts
- •Mauritshuis houses 854 objects, mostly Dutch Golden Age paintings.
- •The building was originally the residence of Count John Maurice of Nassau.
- •The museum's collection includes the famous "Girl with a Pearl Earring" by Johannes Vermeer.
- •The building survived a fire in 1704 and was restored by 1718.
- •During WWII, the art collection was safely stored in a bombproof bunker and later in caves to protect it from Nazi plunder.
- •The museum was expanded in 2014 to connect with the nearby Sociëteit de Witte building via an underground tunnel.
History
The Mauritshuis was built between 1636 and 1641 as the residence of John Maurice, Prince of Nassau-Siegen, during his governorship of Dutch Brazil.
Designed by Jacob van Campen and Pieter Post, it exemplifies Dutch Classicist architecture.
After a fire in 1704 destroyed much of the interior, the building was restored by 1718.
In 1774, it became an art gallery open to the public.
The Dutch state purchased it in 1820 to house the Royal Cabinet of Paintings, officially opening it to the public in 1822.
During WWII, the museum's collection was protected from Nazi plunder by being stored in a bombproof bunker and later in caves near Maastricht.
In 1995, it became a non-profit foundation managing both the building and its collection.
A major renovation and expansion were completed in 2014, enhancing visitor experience and exhibition space.
Place Guide
Prince William V Gallery1774
An adjoining gallery known as the Prince William V Gallery, originally opened in 1774, showcases additional artworks and is considered a hidden gem of The Hague. It was incorporated into the museum expansion completed in 2014.
Girl with a Pearl Earring by Johannes Vermeercirca 1665-1667
This iconic painting, dating from circa 1665-1667, is one of the museum's most famous masterpieces. It depicts a girl wearing a blue turban and a large 'pearl' earring, which is actually a glass drop. The painting is celebrated for its use of light and the enigmatic expression of the subject.
The Building's Architecture1636-1641
The Mauritshuis building is a prime example of Dutch Classicist architecture, designed by Jacob van Campen and Pieter Post. It features strict symmetry with originally four apartments and a great hall, and had a cupola which was lost in a 1704 fire.
Contact
Phone: 070 302 3456
