Torentje, Prime Minister's office tower at Binnenhof, Netherlands
The Torentje is an octagonal tower rising from the edge of the Binnenhof complex in The Hague, featuring two stories with large windows overlooking the Hofvijver lake. The ground floor houses a meeting room for government business, while the upper floor contains the primary office.
Built in the first half of the 14th century, the tower originally served as a summer pavilion for the Counts of Holland, featuring a drawbridge to their garden. Over time, it transformed from a noble retreat into a center of modern government administration.
The tower takes its name from its small, turret-like shape and has served as the workplace of Dutch Prime Ministers since 1982. The rooms reflect the practical needs of government meetings and diplomatic encounters.
Access to the tower is normally restricted to official business and not open for casual visitors. When exploring the Binnenhof grounds, you can view the facade and unique octagonal shape from outside and enjoy the position beside the lake.
Despite its modest size, the tower holds outsized importance for Dutch government administration and serves as the symbol of the Prime Minister's office. Its name comes from its slender form and is often contrasted with the taller buildings of the Binnenhof complex, highlighting its distinctive character.
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