The Mauritshuis Museum is located in the center of Hague, adjacent to the parliamentary complex. The building itself is worth seeing: this 17th-century mansion was originally the private residence of Count John Maurice of Nassau-Siegen, designed by architects Jacob van Campen and Pieter Post. Its symmetrical facade is considered one of the representative works of Dutch classical architecture. The restored "Golden Room" on the ground floor is renowned for its gilded decorations and allegorical ceiling paintings—don't forget to look up during your visit. The museum saves masterpieces such as Vermeer's "View of Delft" and "Girl with a Pearl Earring," Rembrandt's breakthrough work "The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp," as well as works by Rubens.
The museum's collection provides an excellent showcase of the people, landscapes, customs, and daily life during the Dutch Golden Age.
The museum houses approx. 200 permanent exhibits on display. Though small in scale, it can be comfortably explored in one to two hrs. Visitors typically enter and exit through the lobby of the new building across the street, accessing the old hall via a round-trip underground passage. For a quieter viewing experience of "Girl with a Pearl Earring," it is recommended to avoid peak hours.
Other visitors' reviews of Mauritshuis Museum
Show More ReviewsI traveled to a city specifically for a painting. I went to The Hague just to see the masterpiece, "Girl with a Pearl Earring," in person. Compared to large museums, I personally prefer this art gallery; it's small, exquisite, and fulfilling, leaving a deep and unforgettable impression.