The historical Museum of The Hague, the Haags Historisch Museum, is located in the historical heart of The Hague. The museum is housed in the former archery house of St. Sebstian’s guild and dates from 1636. It is built on the spot of a gatehouse that was used by the civic guard. Parts of its cross-vaulted basement have been incorporated in the new archery house and can still be seen today. The civic guard of St. Sebastian used their quarters for parties and meetings. Immediately behind the building, alongside the Hof lake, their shooting ranges were situated.  

Since the late 18^th century, after the dissolution of the civic guard guild the building has been used as a hotel, court house and museum. Since 1986 The Hague Historical Museum resides in the St. Sebastiaansdoelen. Because the monumental building was never meant to house a museum , several adjustments have been made. At this moment the building is adapted to the latest demands regarding climate and safety in museums.  

Rijksmuseum at the Hof lake, Highlights of Dutch History 

The Hague Historical Museum is until 2008 the Rijksmuseum at the Hof lake. The most important pieces in the collection of the department of Dutch history of the Rijksmuseum are on display in an exhibition designed to highlight the principal events in the history of the Netherlands. The exhibition covers the period from the Eighty Years War to the 20^th century. Dutch history is bought to life by a wealth of interesting objects, including Van Oldenbarnevelt’s walking stick, treasures from the Silver Fleet, the first Dutch Kilogram and Willem Drees’s desk.