Square 1813 (Plein 1813)
Plein 1813 4, The Hague, NLD
The Hague’s Square 1813 (Plein 1813) consists of a 2-lane roundabout that surrounds the country’s largest 19th-century statue. Named the Independence Monument, it commemorates two significant 1813 events: the Netherlands’ victory over Napolean and the consequent establishment of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Due to its central location, Square 1813 acts as a convenient point of reference for major attractions in The Hague, including the Mauritshuis, Peace Palace, Escher in The Palace, and the Noordeinde Palace. Most walking, bicycle, and self-guided sightseeing tours in The Hague will quickly stop at the square to discuss the Independence Monument, which depicts statues of William I and allegorical figures representing victory and faith. Like Square 1813, these excursions are a great way to orient oneself to the city for independent exploring.
Watch out for bicycles in the roundabout. While The Hague is one of the country’s most bike-friendly cities, cyclists aren’t always the friendliest toward pedestrians wandering the bike lane.
Because the weather is unpredictable in the Netherlands, it’s best to have a rain jacket or umbrella on hand. Even the sunniest days may include a downpour.
If you plan to visit any of the museums near Square 1813, check their opening hours in advance, as many are closed on Mondays and certain holidays.
Plein 1813 is situated at the intersection of Alexander Street (Alexanderstraat) and Sophialaan in The Hague’s Willemspark neighborhood. Located less than a mile (1.2 kilometers) from the historic center, it can easily be reached on foot. To get to the square by public transportation, take tram line 1 or buses 22, 24, 28, or N3 to transit stops Den Haag, Mauritskade, or Javastraat.
You only need a minute or two to take in Square 1813, so your arrival time is not overly critical. This area of The Hague is quite safe, and visitors can feel secure walking around at nighttime. Like any outdoor attraction, the square is best enjoyed when the weather is pleasant, and fewer tourists are present; for The Hague, this is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November).
Visitors staying in Amsterdam who want to maximize their limited vacation time in the Netherlands can easily visit The Hague, along with nearby Rotterdam and Delft, on a private or shared round-trip day tour. These excursions are a great way to get a taste of the country without spending money on overnight trips or three separate day tours.
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