Dutch Royal Library

The Royal Library, established in 1798, is located in The Hague, the administrative capital of the Netherlands. It houses the country's most important collection of old books and manuscripts. The Hague itself is a city with a rich history, serving as the seat of government and home to the royal court.1

The city's origins trace back to a hunting lodge of the counts of Holland, with a castle built in 1248 that became a principal residence. Over centuries, The Hague evolved into a center for government, diplomacy, and international law, hosting significant international conferences. It is also home to royal palaces and numerous museums, including the Royal Picture Gallery. The Royal Library's establishment in the late 18th century aligns with a broader trend of developing national library collections across Europe during that period.12