Mauritshuis Visitor Centre - Willemstad

The Mauritshuis in Willemstad was built in 1623 as a hunting lodge and country retreat for Prince Maurice of Orange, originally named Princehof. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the building suffered serious damage due to war, neglect and storms. Over the years, it served various purposes: as a military hospital, a gendarmerie barracks, and even a homing pigeon station.

From 1973 to 1997, it functioned as Willemstad’s town hall. Today, this national heritage site is home to a visitor centre, where interactive presentations and exhibitions introduce you to the Defence Line of Willemstad, the Zuiderwaterlinie, and the history of both the town and the building itself.

Weddings can be held in the former council chamber. In the attic, you’ll find a permanent exhibition by the local history society De Willemstad about living and working in the past. The Governor’s Room hosts temporary exhibitions. In this way, the Mauritshuis connects the heritage of the fortified town with stories that continue to fascinate.