Church of St James

Welcome to the Grote or St. James Church, a medieval monument in the heart of The Hague. This impressive Gothic church, built in the 14th century, is one of the city’s oldest and most important buildings, alongside the Binnenhof and the Abbey Church of Loosduinen. It is believed that a wooden church already stood here in the 13th century, highlighting the site’s long religious history. 

Dedicated to the apostle James, the church played a key role in the history of Holland. Count Albrecht of Bavaria commissioned its construction, and in 1456, knights of the prestigious Order of the Golden Fleece gathered here. Their coats of arms still hang in the church today as a reminder of that event. 

The Dutch royal family also shares a special connection with the church. Prince William II was baptized here on July 1, 1626, followed by his son, William III, on January 15, 1651. The church also hosted the wedding blessing of Queen Wilhelmina and Prince Hendrik on February 7, 1901. For this occasion, the church was specially heated — an unusual step that had an unexpected result: the organ malfunctioned due to the warmth. 

With its 93-meter-high tower, known as the "Haagse Toren" or The Hague Tower, the church remains a striking part of the city skyline. Visitors can climb the tower for a breathtaking view over The Hague.