Oud Eik en Duinen Cemetery
A historic cemetery in The Hague, featuring ancient trees, 19th-century graves, and the ruins of a medieval chapel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Chestnut trees in bloom
Oud Eik en Duinen Cemetery
Best Time
Chestnut trees in bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic cemetery in The Hague, featuring ancient trees, 19th-century graves, and the ruins of a medieval chapel.
"A beautiful and well-maintained cemetery with historical value and ancient trees."
🚶♀️ Explore Walking Routes
Check Monuta's website for curated walking routes to discover hidden gems and historical insights.
🍂 Autumn's Charm
Visit in autumn to see the beautiful chestnut trees and enjoy the crisp, atmospheric setting.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic 19th-Century Graves
Older sections
Explore weathered 19th-century tombstones and elaborate mausoleums, whispering tales of the past.
Ancient Trees
Throughout the cemetery
Wander beneath majestic old oaks, beeches, and chestnut trees, some dating back centuries.
Chapel Ruin
Near the entrance
Discover the atmospheric ruins of a 13th-century chapel, a testament to the site's long history.
Graves of Notable Figures
Various locations
Pay respects to Dutch luminaries like Couperus, Drees, and Maris, buried amongst the serene landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Navigating the Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore Walking Routes
Check Monuta's website for curated walking routes to discover hidden gems and historical insights.
🍂 Autumn's Charm
Visit in autumn to see the beautiful chestnut trees and enjoy the crisp, atmospheric setting.
🤫 Be Respectful
Remember this is a place of rest. Keep noise to a minimum and be mindful of ongoing services.
🐶 Watch for Stray Dogs
Some visitors note stray dogs; be aware and avoid disturbing them.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore Walking Routes
Check Monuta's website for curated walking routes to discover hidden gems and historical insights.
🍂 Autumn's Charm
Visit in autumn to see the beautiful chestnut trees and enjoy the crisp, atmospheric setting.
🤫 Be Respectful
Remember this is a place of rest. Keep noise to a minimum and be mindful of ongoing services.
🐶 Watch for Stray Dogs
Some visitors note stray dogs; be aware and avoid disturbing them.
🕰️ Check Closing Times
The cemetery closes at sunset, so plan your visit accordingly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Oud Eik en Duinen Cemetery is a historically significant and beautiful resting place, praised for its ancient trees and notable graves. However, some visitors note areas of disrepair and concerns about tree dieback and maintenance. Despite these issues, many find it a peaceful and atmospheric location for reflection and exploration.
"good planning could be done"
ayhan mutlu
"Lots of stray dogs with their inevitable droppings.
Tree dieback is very visible.
Especially American oaks, old beeches, and chestnuts.
Increasing droughts are also to blame!
Old 19th-century graves are in serious disrepair!
Why isn't there regular supervision of this still special historical cemetery?"
Wim
"It was once a beautiful place. Now, unfortunately, it's overrun with untended graves, large molehills without stones, and plastic flowers stuck in them. Residents often hear loud hymns and prayers, even at 5 a.m. There's also a lot of noise from cars in the street. This is truly an untenable situation."
Esther Kinski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cemetery is located in The Hague. Public transport options include buses and trams. Parking is available nearby, but check local regulations.
Yes, several bus and tram lines serve the area around the cemetery. It's advisable to check current public transport schedules for the most convenient routes.
Limited parking may be available, but it's recommended to check for designated areas or nearby street parking.
If you are staying in nearby areas of The Hague, walking might be an option. The cemetery is situated in an older part of the city.
Taking a bus or tram is generally recommended from the city center. The journey time will vary depending on your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Oud Eik en Duinen Cemetery is generally free. It is a public space for remembrance and reflection.
The cemetery is open daily but closes at sunset. It is advisable to check the exact closing time based on the season.
No, the cemetery is closed between sunset and sunrise. Visitors must leave before it gets dark.
There is no admission fee to enter Oud Eik en Duinen Cemetery. It is a place of historical significance and public access.
The primary restriction is that the cemetery closes at sunset. It is a place of quiet contemplation, so respectful behavior is expected at all times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see historic 19th-century graves, ancient trees like oaks and beeches, the ruins of a 13th-century chapel, and the graves of notable Dutch figures.
Maintenance varies; older sections may show disrepair, while newer areas are generally well-kept. Tree dieback is also noted.
While official guided tours might not be frequent, Monuta provides walking routes on their website that you can follow independently.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site and avoid disturbing others.
The cemetery is known for its old trees, including American oaks, old beeches, and chestnuts, which are particularly beautiful in autumn.
📸 📸 Photography
The older sections with weathered graves and ancient trees, especially during golden hour, offer great photographic opportunities. The chapel ruins are also picturesque.
Drone usage is typically restricted in cemeteries due to privacy and respect concerns. It's best to assume it's not allowed unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Late afternoons, especially during sunset, provide beautiful lighting. Mornings can also be good for softer light and fewer crowds.
While general photography is allowed, be mindful of the solemnity of the place. Avoid intrusive photography, especially near services or private moments.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide landscapes and details. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions, but be mindful of space.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider downloading one of the walking routes from Monuta's website beforehand to guide your exploration and make it more interactive. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours and avoid times when services might be taking place. Be mindful of any stray dogs mentioned by visitors and ensure children are supervised.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Photographers
Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture atmospheric shots, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The interplay of light and shadow on weathered stones and ancient trees, along with the chapel ruins, creates compelling compositions. Remember to be respectful of the solemnity of the location and avoid intrusive photography.
🌳 Nature Lovers
While the natural beauty is a significant draw, be aware of the reported tree dieback and drought effects. This can add a layer of reflection on environmental changes. The cemetery provides a peaceful environment for a contemplative walk surrounded by natural elements.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Oud Eik en Duinen
The cemetery is divided into older and newer sections, each with its distinct character. The older parts are characterized by their 19th-century graves, many of which are now in disrepair, and ancient, majestic trees like oaks, beeches, and chestnuts. These venerable trees contribute significantly to the cemetery's serene and somewhat melancholic beauty, especially during autumn when the foliage turns vibrant colors. The newer sections, in contrast, are more formally laid out with straight lanes and manicured trees, offering a different, more ordered aesthetic.
Despite its historical importance, some visitors note that certain areas of the cemetery are showing signs of neglect, with untended graves and visible tree dieback attributed to increasing droughts. However, many still find it a beautiful and respectful place of rest, appreciating its historical value and the natural beauty of its ancient trees. Monuta, the current management, offers walking routes that help visitors navigate and appreciate the cemetery's diverse features and historical layers.
Nature and Tree Heritage
The cemetery's tree heritage is particularly striking during the autumn months when the chestnut trees are in full glory, offering a spectacular display of color. This seasonal beauty draws visitors who appreciate nature and photography. However, recent years have seen increased tree dieback, a concern for many visitors and likely exacerbated by increasing droughts. This natural phenomenon adds a layer of poignancy to the landscape, highlighting the ephemeral nature of both life and the environment.
For those interested in botany or simply seeking a peaceful walk amidst nature, Oud Eik en Duinen offers a rich experience. The diverse species of trees create varied microclimates and habitats, supporting local wildlife. The combination of historical gravestones and ancient trees creates a unique juxtaposition, making it a place where history and nature intertwine beautifully.
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