Escher in the Palace

If you’re into the mind-bending art of M.C. Escher, then Escher in Het Paleis in The Hague is a spot you can’t miss. This museum is set in the former winter palace of Queen Emma, which adds a cool mix of royal history and artistic brilliance. The neoclassical building, with its copper railings and Italian marbles, is the perfect setting for Escher’s amazing prints and woodcuts.

History

The palace dates back to the 1760s and was bought by the Hope family in 1796. Queen Emma purchased and renovated it in 1896, adding a central staircase with shiny copper railings and fancy Italian marbles. It served as a workplace for several Dutch queens, including Wilhelmina, Juliana, and Beatrix, until it was sold to The Hague municipality in 1990. In 2002, it became the Escher in Het Paleis museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Escher’s works.

How to Get There

Visitors can easily reach Escher in Het Paleis by various means:

1. By Tram: Take tram 15 or 16 to the Korte Voorhout stop. From there, follow the tram line for another 100 meters until you reach Lange Voorhout.
2. By Bus: Take bus 20 to the ‘s-Gravenhage, Malieveld stop. Walk north, cross the bridge (Dierentuinbrug), and continue straight down Houtweg.
3. By Bike: Cycle left out of the station towards the park, follow the park bike path, and turn north. Walk your bike over the big zebra crossing (Dierentuinbrug) across Koningskade.
4. By Car: Take the Utrechtsebaan (A4 & A12) signs into ‘Centrum’ and park at the Museumkwartier or Malieveld.

Attractions

1. Metamorphosis III: A seven-meter-long woodcut that showcases Escher’s link of eternity and infinity.
2. In the Eye of Escher: A permanent exhibition on the second story featuring games with perspective using mirrors and kaleidoscopes.
3. Early Italian Landscapes: Exhibits showcasing Escher’s early work, including Italian landscapes, still lifes, and drawings of Moorish mosaics.
4. Interactive Floor: An interactive floor with optical illusions and modern works focused on optical illusions.

Ticket Information

• Adults: €12.50
• Children (7-12): €6.50
• Children under 6: Free
• Students and Teens: Reduced entry costs
• Groups of 15+: €11.50
• ICOM Members: Free
• Primary School Student Groups: €4.50
• School Groups Secondary Education: €5.50

Tips for Visiting

1. Plan Your Visit: The museum is open from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday through Sunday. Last visitors are admitted until 4:25 PM.
2. Audio Guides: Multilingual audio guides are available for visitors.
3. Photography: Photographs are allowed, but the use of a stand/tripod or selfie stick is not permitted.
4. Avoid Crowds: Weekends are packed, especially in the afternoons. Wednesdays are also popular, so it’s best to visit on weekdays.
5. Buy Tickets Online: Purchasing tickets online can help you skip the line, especially during peak times.
6. Explore the Palace: The palace itself is a work of art, with stunning chandeliers and ornate details. Take time to appreciate its beauty.
7. Interactive Displays: The interactive floor offers fun and engaging activities that are perfect for families and enthusiasts alike.

Escher in Het Paleis is a unique blend of art, history, and interactive fun, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting The Hague.