The Hague

From Might to Right: The Hague's Trail of Justice

4.6 km141 min8 stops

What awaits you on this Red Thread tour

Embark on a gripping narrative journey through The Hague, tracing the dramatic evolution of human justice. From the brutal, enclosed power of medieval courtyards to the hopeful, glass-clad halls of international tribunals, this tour reveals how humanity has struggled to replace the rule of force with the rule of law. Join Ian, a meticulous historian, and Sofia, an expert in the gritty, human realities of the past, as they uncover the secrets behind the city's most iconic monuments and hidden bureaucratic fortresses.

Itinerary

1

TOUR START

Binnenhof

The historic and current center of Dutch politics, representing the foundation of national law and power.

Binnenhof

Pic by Ben Bender on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

0.55 km • 8 min
2

STOP 2

Prison Gate Museum (Gevangenpoort)

A stark reminder of the harsh realities of criminal justice before the era of modern human rights.

Prison Gate Museum (Gevangenpoort)

Pic by Gerrit de Hoog on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

0.89 km • 14 min
3

STOP 3

Plein 1813

A monument commemorating the founding of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the establishment of a constitutional state.

Plein 1813

Pic by Michielverbeek on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

0.66 km • 10 min
4

STOP 4

World Peace Flame

A continuously burning monument surrounded by stones from 196 countries, symbolizing a grassroots global desire for peace.

World Peace Flame

Pic by Sander van der Wel on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

0.25 km • 4 min
5

STOP 5

Peace Palace (Vredespaleis)

The ultimate icon of international law, housing the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration.

Peace Palace (Vredespaleis)

Pic by Peegmehh on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0 nl)

0.27 km • 4 min
6

STOP 6

The Hague Academy of International Law

The educational and academic backbone of international law, training global diplomats and jurists.

1.36 km • 21 min
7

STOP 7

OPCW Headquarters

The Nobel Peace Prize-winning institution responsible for the active enforcement of chemical weapons disarmament.

0.63 km • 10 min
8

END

Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals (MICT)

The institution representing the modern era of international criminal justice, holding individuals accountable for mass atrocities.

Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals (MICT)

Pic by Julian Nyča on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Where the tour takes place

Starting point and rough tour area – the exact route unfolds in the app.

Good to know

  • Ideal for History buffs, political science enthusiasts, law students, and curious urban explorers interested in the mechanics of global power.
  • Best time Daytime, preferably on a weekday when the bureaucratic and diplomatic energy of the city is palpable.
  • What to bring Comfortable walking shoes and a windbreaker, as the Dutch weather can change rapidly.
  • Security checks Some international buildings have strict perimeters; always carry a valid ID just in case.
  • Pacing Take your time at the Peace Palace gates; the details are intricate and worth a long look.
  • Photography Be mindful of photography restrictions around active international tribunals and embassies.
  • Rest stops The area around Plein 1813 has excellent cafes to pause and reflect on the heavy history.
  • Your voucher You can redeem your voucher for two years from purchase. Once redeemed, you have 14 days of access and can enjoy the tour as often as you like during that time.

Your guide

Ian MacLeod
Audio sample
0:000:00

Ian MacLeod

  • Power, Protest & Civic Spaces
  • Scotland

Connoisseur of political movements. Traces the routes of protests and explains the power of public spaces.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to the tour after buying?

You see your voucher code right after payment – and you also receive it at the email address you entered at checkout. Redeem that code in the Red Thread app; that's where the tour starts.

When does my access start?

Only when you redeem the code in the app, not at purchase. From redemption you have 14 days of access to the tour.

Do I need the Red Thread app?

Yes. The free Red Thread app turns your tour into a vivid experience: with audio, a map, and thoughtful prompts, it guides you from place to place in an engaging and entertaining way. It's available free for iOS and Android.

Now only €3.99 incl. VAT