Binnenhof

The Binnenhof is a group of buildings in which the deliberations of the General States (former parliament) were held in the past and housed the most important institutions of Dutch political life. The first buildings were built in this place in the 13th century - the present shape of Binnenhof was obtained during the last expansion in the 18th century. The most interesting tourist place for Binnenhof is Ridderzal - a knight's hall in the Gothic style.

To this day, the Binnenhof is the seat of the parliament and the prime minister. Within the complex there are many historical objects of interest, among others William IV's Palace, Palace of the Head of State and four magnificent gates leading to the castle: Mauritshuis, Inner, Prison and Stadhouer.

A special attraction was and is Torentje - the tower on an octagonal plan, which houses the office of the prime minister. Traditionally, the office windows have never been covered, which allowed tourists to see the prime minister at work. This custom was abandoned in 2002, when the controversial politician Pima Fortuyn was killed here.