Centrally located in Apeldoorn, the Netherlands, yet hidden from politics and power in The Hague, Paleis Het Loo used to be its own powerhouse. Treaties were signed, laws were signed up and the Netherlands went from republic to Kingdom all within the brick walls of Paleis Het Loo. Today, the historic palace offers more than history; a state-of-the-art extension underneath the front square. You have to visit, to believe it! The 5000m2 extension houses temporary exhibition spaces, a permanent presentation of the House of Orange and visitors facilities such as museum shop, grand foyer and elevators to exhibition spaces and the palace.
House of Orange
The presentation “The House of Orange” is about the history of the Dutch royal family and its role within the Netherlands and abroad. With masterpieces, video images and animations, visitors can discover the story behind the colour orange and of the royal family: from William of Orange to Amalia, the Dutch crown princess.
The stories explore the origins of the royal family. Wandering past objects, from the 16th to the 21st century, visitors unravel the ‘great history’ of the Netherlands and the House of Orange.
The presentation is also about the public side of the monarchy: about power, politics and persona. The relationship with the people runs through it like a thread, because without the support of the people, the monarchy will and cannot exist.
Masterpiece
The first temporary exhibition deals with the rebuilding process of the 5,000 m2 extension and renovation of the palace. For years, the forecourt was a metre-deep construction site. This was a grand project, with technical challenges and complex planning – referred to a Masterpiece by many, hence the name of the exhibition. Hundreds of people worked on this architectural masterpiece, in which every detail was prepared, documented and executed to perfection. Pure craftsmanship.
Orange blossom
Part of the exhibition Masterpiece, is Orange blossom. The artwork Orange blossom from Linda Nieuwstad depicts the renewal of Paleis Het Loo. Visitors can see, feel and even smell the sculpture. Nieuwstad was inspired by a painting from the collection of Het Loo Palace, ‘Vivat Rex’, painted by Elias van den Broeck.
Experience ‘Masterpiece’ with all your senses in an interactive tour lasting 20 minutes, in which you will discover the highlights of the redevelopment operation. Smell, see and hear the new Paleis Het Loo. The Sensory Tour is free of charge, and there is no need to book.
Every half year, starting this spring, a new exhibition will be featured. In autumn the second temporary exhibition Trones will be featured.
Opening hours
Monday from 1 pm to 5 pm. Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. During school holidays and public holidays Paleis Het Loo is open all Monday.