Prison Gate Museum
Gevangenpoort
A 14th-century city gate next to the Binnenhof, converted into a prison. Guided tours cover medieval punishments and the story of the de Witt brothers.
The Gevangenpoort was originally the outer gate of the Counts of Holland's castle. From the 15th century, it served as a prison for four hundred years. Today it is a national museum, preserving cells, torture chambers and various instruments of punishment. Visits are conducted as guided tours (English-language sessions are available), telling the famous story of Johan and Cornelis de Witt, who were imprisoned here in 1672 and then murdered by a mob. Admission is about €15, and a combined ticket is available with the Prince William V Gallery opposite. Some spaces are narrow and dark, so it may not suit young children.
Opening hours
Tue–Sun 10:00–17:00 (closed Mon); by guided tour sessions
Nearby sights
- Prince William V Gallery
- De Passage
- Binnenhof
- Grote Kerk (St. James' Church)
- Lange Voorhout
- Mauritshuis
- Noordeinde Palace
- Escher in The Palace