The imposing equestrian statue of King William II has a new location in The Hague. On Friday, September 5th, the statue was installed in the French garden of Kneuterdijk Palace, where the public can admire it daily. The statue was removed from the Buitenhof in November 2023 to make way for the Viewpoint, from which everyone can watch the renovation work on the Binnenhof.

The nearly four-meter-tall statue has recently been inspected for damage and repaired where necessary. The new location has a connection to William II: Kneuterdijk Palace was the residence of King William II and his wife Anna Paulowna in the first half of the nineteenth century. King William II is therefore temporarily returning “home.”

The French garden of Kneuterdijk Palace, part of the Council of State building complex, is open to the public. Visitors can view the sculpture daily: Monday through Friday between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM and on weekends from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, via the entrance at Paleisstraat 1.After the renovation of the Binnenhof, the equestrian statue will return to its familiar place on the Buitenhof.

Alderman Saskia Bruines: “It’s good news that the statue of King Willem II is once again visible to everyone. The statue belongs in The Hague, and I’m pleased that it now stands in such a beautiful spot in the French garden.”

Featured photos: Phil Nijhuis