Gevangenpoort

Hague, Netherlands

The Gevangenpoort (Prisoner's Gate) is a former gate and medieval prison on the Buitenhof. From 1420 until 1828, the prison was used for housing people who had committed serious crimes while they awaited sentencing.

Its most famous prisoner was Cornelis de Witt, who was held on the charge of plotting the murder of the stadtholder. He was lynched together with his brother Johan on 20 August 1672 on the square in front of the building.

In 1882, the Gevangenpoort became a prison museum. The 'gate' function was lost in 1923 when the houses adjoining the Hofvijver were taken down to build the street that now allows busy traffic to run by it.

Since 2010, museum visitors can view the restored art gallery that can be reached through a special staircase that connects the two buildings. The collection which hangs here is a modern reconstruction of the original 1774 art cabinet that was situated upstairs above the fencing school. The paintings are again upstairs, hanging crowded together on the walls in the style of the late 18th-century. In 1822 the collection was moved to the Mauritshuis which remains the formal owner of the paintings on display. During restoration activities, highlights of the permanent Mauritshuis collection have been temporarily displayed in the gallery.

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Address

Buitenhof 33, Hague, Netherlands
See all sites in Hague

Details

Founded: 1420
Category: Museums in Netherlands

Rating

4.4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Ruby Ann “Rubes” Brand (5 months ago)
The old prison in The Hague. It's really interesting to visit. You can just imagine how it was in the old days. The old smell of the building makes it even more real...
Jacob G (6 months ago)
Such a cool museum! Took me about an hour or so to get through it all so it’s not very big, but I found it perfect to come here on my day trip to The Hague! If you’re interested in learning about crime and punishment, then this is an awesome experience!!
F. Nobels (8 months ago)
Nice museum about the old jails in the Netherlands. One drawback is that the routes in the museum are not wel marked so it is possible to miss a large part of the museum. The museum has some nice interactive activities and the ordering the museum is quite good. The museum is not big. They accept the museumcard.
John Stewart, Jr. (8 months ago)
Unveiling History's Secrets: A Journey through The Hague's Prison Gate Museum Nestled within the heart of The Hague, the Prison Gate Museum stands as a testament to centuries of intriguing history and cultural richness. Our visit to this captivating museum was an illuminating journey through the annals of time, offering a glimpse into the city's past that left us both mesmerized and enlightened. Stepping through the imposing gates, we were transported back in time to an era of justice, punishment, and intrigue. The museum's meticulously curated exhibits vividly depicted the different facets of prison life, from interrogation to torture and punishment. Each room unveiled layers of history, shedding light on the methods and practices employed throughout the ages. Of particular interest were the interrogation rooms, where visitors could immerse themselves in the tense atmosphere of past investigations. The displays provided insights into the techniques used to extract information, offering a sobering reminder of the complexities of justice in times gone by. Equally compelling were the sections dedicated to torture and punishment, where vivid descriptions and artifacts brought to life the harsh realities faced by prisoners. From gruesome implements to haunting tales of confinement, these exhibits served as poignant reminders of the human cost of crime and punishment. Our experience at the Prison Gate Museum was enriched by the knowledgeable staff, who eagerly shared insights and anecdotes, further enhancing our understanding of the exhibits. Their passion for preserving and sharing the city's history was palpable, adding depth and authenticity to our visit. In conclusion, the Prison Gate Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to delve into The Hague's rich tapestry of history and culture. With its evocative exhibits, intriguing artifacts, and engaging staff, it offers a captivating journey through time that leaves a lasting impression. Whether a local resident or a curious traveler, a visit to this museum is sure to inspire, educate, and intrigue.
B (15 months ago)
Such a brilliant place, so much history and the information on the exhibitions was amazing. They give you a booklet when you first go in and it’s a self-guided tour, then you can come back for part 2 where you follow a different route with an audio tour to guide you. I was so impressed, in particular with how close you could get to everything. You really feel like you’re immersed in the history and you can follow a story with the audio tape which helps you feel more engaged. I’d highly recommend, you’ll need around 1hr-1.5hrs for the visit.
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