The Municipality of The Hague has started making Plein 1813 greener. By removing paving stones and parking spaces, there will be more room on the historic square for trees, shrubs, and other greenery. This reinforces the monumental character of the square and creates a more pleasant, climate-resilient living environment. Alderman Robert Barker (Public Space, Animal Welfare, Environment) symbolically planted a number of new plants today.
Plein 1813 is best known for the National Monument commemorating the founding of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1813. The square forms an important historical and cultural anchor point in the city. As early as 2018, a plan was in place to green the square, with an emphasis on the immediate surroundings of the monument. In the current implementation, that plan is being expanded: the triangles on the inner side of the square are now also being landscaped with greenery. In total, 2,500 m² of green space will be added.
Rich history honored
Alderman Barker emphasizes the importance of this step: “Plein 1813 is a place with a rich history. By adding greenery here, we not only make the square more beautiful but also future-proof. Less stone and more greenery helps us make the city cooler, healthier, and more livable. This square shows how we are making The Hague greener, step by step.”
Approach to urbanized neighborhoods
The greening of Plein 1813 is part of a broader approach to making paved neighborhoods in The Hague greener. More greenery contributes to biodiversity, better water retention during heavy rainfall, and a more pleasant living environment for residents and visitors.
Photo: Henriëtte Guest