The building
The Binnenhof, a magnificent "Inner Court," the 13th-century hunting lodge of the counts of Holland, is the center of Holland's political life and the official seat of government. This complex of buildings is set in the oldest part of the city. In the center of the Binnenhof is the beautiful Hall of Knights. Since 1904, its immense interior adorned with provincial flags and leaded-glass windows depicting the coats of arms of Dutch cities has hosted the Queen's annual address (the third Tuesday in September), the opening of Parliament, official receptions, and interparliamentary conferences.

There are three entrances and four gates to the Binnenhof. The buildings on the left and right of the Ridderzaal are the former Stadtholders' Quarters, which now house the First and Second Chamber of the States General, the equivalent to the House of Representatives and Congress, respectively. The buildings, very interesting in themselves, fascinate because they form the backdrop against which some of the most important events from Dutch history took place.

Exhibition
The reception hall below the Knights' Hall houses an exhibition. It includes a model of the Binnenhof, as well as a historic age bar which sets out the political history of the Low Countries over the past twelve centuries, and grave stones of a number of knights. The stones were discovered when the former Court Chapel on the Binnenhof was taken down.

Guided tours
The guided tours, preceded by a video presentation about the Binnenhof, take you through the Knights' Hall and the First and Second Chamber of Parliament. Buildings may be closed to the public when Parliament is in session.

Location
Parliament Buildings
Binnenhof 8a
2513 AA The Hague
Tel: +31 (0)70- 3646144
Email: info@binnenhofbezoek.nl
www.binnenhofbezoek.nl