The Peace Palace is a majestic building in The Hague, Netherlands, that houses the International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, and other institutions dedicated to the peaceful resolution of conflicts. The palace was built in the early 20th century with funds donated by Andrew Carnegie, and it is surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains.
If you want to visit the Peace Palace, you need to book a ticket online in advance. The tickets cost 11 euros for adults and 6 euros for children and students.
The Peace Palace is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 17:00. The palace is closed on Mondays and some public holidays.
To get to the Peace Palace, you can take tram 1 or 16 from the central station or the city center and get off at the stop «Vredespaleis». You can also take bus 24 or 28 and get off at the stop «Carnegieplein». Alternatively, you can rent a bike or take a taxi.
Some tips for your visit are:
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time and show your ticket at the entrance.
- Bring a valid ID card or passport, as you will need to go through a security check.
- Follow the instructions of the guides and staff, and respect the silence and dignity of the palace.
- Do not bring any food, drinks, or large bags into the palace. You can leave them in the lockers at the reception.
- Do not take any photos or videos inside the palace. You can take photos outside in the gardens.
The tours last about an hour and are available in several languages. You will learn about the history and architecture of the palace, as well as the work and role of the courts and organizations that are based there. You will also see some of the most impressive rooms and artworks in the palace, such as:
- The Great Hall of Justice, where the International Court of Justice holds its hearings.
- The Japanese Room, which was a gift from Japan and features exquisite woodwork and paintings.
- The Library, which contains over a million books and documents on international law and peace.
- The Peace Flame, which is a symbol of hope and solidarity for peace.
The Peace Palace is a unique and inspiring place to visit. It is not only a beautiful monument, but also a living testimony of humanity’s quest for justice and harmony.
