Hofvijver, Artificial pond in The Hague, Netherlands

Hofvijver is an artificial pond in the center of The Hague, Netherlands. It is a rectangular body of water bordered by grassy banks and walking paths, with several small islands and fountains.

The pond was created in the 13th century when dunes were dug out to provide sand for building the nearby court. Over time, it became a central feature of the city's layout and was later surrounded by important buildings.

The name Hofvijver means 'court pond', referring to its role beside the Binnenhof complex. Today, locals and visitors stroll along its banks, and the water reflects the nearby government buildings, creating a scene that feels both civic and relaxed.

The pond is easy to reach on foot or by bike, and the paths around it are flat and open to everyone. Benches along the edge offer places to sit, and the area is pleasant to walk through at any time of day.

The pond is home to a small island with a fountain that sprays water high into the air, and it is often used for temporary art installations. Visitors might also notice the many ducks and swans that gather along the edges.