Kneuterdijk Palace, Hague

Kneuterdijk Palace, situated in The Hague, holds a significant historical and governmental role today as the headquarters of the Council of State (Raad van State).

This architectural gem, constructed in 1716 during the Louis XIV era by the renowned architect Daniel Marot, was commissioned by Count Johan Hendrik of Wassenaer-Obdam, a member of the House of Wassenaer. Initially, the palace served as the residence for King William II of the Netherlands and his wife, Queen Anna Paulowna, during the first half of the 19th century, when he held the title of crown prince. King William II made notable additions to the palace complex, incorporating English Tudor-style buildings, with the "Gothic Hall" being the sole surviving example. The design of this hall was inspired by the grand dining hall at Christ Church, Oxford, where King William II had studied as an alumnus.

Subsequently, the palace was used by their grandson, Crown Prince William, between 1858 and his passing in 1879. In the 1930s, Princess Juliana occasionally utilized the premises. Following World War II, the former ballroom of the palace became the venue for the trials of Dutch war criminals, with some receiving death sentences. Later, the Ministry of Finance occupied the building for an extended period. However, after extensive restoration efforts were completed in 2001, Kneuterdijk Palace became the official residence of the Netherlands' Council of State.

The Council of State holds a vital constitutional role in the Netherlands, serving as an advisory body to the government and the States General. Its members include both members of the royal family and individuals appointed by the Crown, typically possessing backgrounds in politics, commerce, diplomacy, or the military. Established in 1531, the Council of State stands as one of the world's oldest functioning state organizations, contributing significantly to the Dutch governance structure.