Johan de Witt statue, Hague

The statue of Johan de Witt, a notable Dutch statesman and prominent political figure during the 17th century in the Dutch Republic, is situated prominently at De Plaats in The Hague. It was erected in 1916 and serves as both a tribute to his political influence and a solemn reminder of his tragic demise. Johan de Witt, renowned for his significant role in Dutch politics, played a pivotal part in establishing peace with England in 1654 and played a crucial role in the peace treaties of Breda and Alkmaar in 1667.

One distinctive aspect of the statue is its portrayal of Johan de Witt with two fingers pointing toward the exact location where he was tragically assassinated in 1672. This symbolic gesture immortalizes the site of his murder, transforming the statue into more than just a commemoration; it becomes a historical marker.

Johan de Witt's life was characterized by both triumphs and tragedies. He survived an assassination attempt on June 21, 1672, only to be brutally murdered a few months later, on August 20, 1672. The chilling relics of this event, including Johan de Witt's thumb and his brother's tongue, are preserved in The Hague Historical Museum, serving as unsettling reminders of the brutality surrounding their deaths.

The statue of Johan de Witt not only honors his political accomplishments and leadership but also bears witness to the turbulent era in which he lived and the violent conclusion he met. It stands as a significant historical landmark, encapsulating a crucial period in Dutch history.