Mauritshuis Museum: An Art Lover’s Paradise in The Hague
Nestled in the heart of The Hague, the Mauritshuis Museum is an iconic Dutch destination for art lovers from all over the world. Boasting a vast collection of works from the Dutch Golden Age, this exquisite museum is home to some of the most beloved masterpieces in the history of art. From the captivating Girl with a Pearl Earring to the iconic View of Delft, the Mauritshuis Museum has something for everyone.
A Brief History of the Museum
The Mauritshuis Museum is named after its original owner, Johan Maurits, Count of Nassau-Siegen. Johan Maurits was a Dutch nobleman and governor of the Dutch Brazil colony from 1637 to 1644. During his stay in Brazil, he was inspired by the Baroque architecture and decided to build a palace in The Hague with a similar design.
The palace was completed in 1644 and, after his death in 1679, it served as a residence for the Dutch stadtholders. In 1820, King William I donated the palace to the Dutch state and it was converted into a museum, now known as the Mauritshuis Museum.
What to See at the Mauritshuis Museum
The Mauritshuis Museum is home to an extensive collection of Dutch and Flemish masterpieces from the 17th century, commonly referred to as the Dutch Golden Age. Here, visitors can admire works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Jan Steen, and Jan Vermeer.
The museum’s most iconic painting is undoubtedly the Girl with a Pearl Earring, which was painted by Johannes Vermeer in 1665. This captivating portrait of a young girl wearing a pearl earring has become one of the most recognizable works of art in the world.
In addition to the Girl with a Pearl Earring, visitors can also explore other works by Vermeer, such as The Milkmaid, The Little Street, and View of Delft. All of these works are displayed in the museum’s permanent collection, which also includes works by Rembrandt, Jan Steen, and Frans Hals.
Apart from the permanent collection, the Mauritshuis Museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions and events. The museum offers guided tours in both Dutch and English, as well as special activities for children and families.
Getting to the Mauritshuis Museum
The Mauritshuis Museum is located in the city center of The Hague, just a few minutes away from the Central Station. Visitors can reach the museum by bus, tram, or bicycle, or they can take a short walk from the station.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 11 AM to 5 PM. Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum.
Conclusion
The Mauritshuis Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers. Here, visitors can explore the iconic paintings of the Dutch Golden Age, such as the Girl with a Pearl Earring and View of Delft. With its vast collection of masterpieces and its convenient location in the heart of The Hague, the Mauritshuis Museum offers a unique experience for all ages.