The Hague Animal Shelter Exhibition Atrium The Hague
The official kickoff of our anniversary year. Discover the story of the oldest animal centre in the Netherlands.
In September 2027, we will officially usher in our special anniversary year at a place that forms the heart of the city: the Atrium in The Hague. In the middle of this public space, where four thousand residents pass by daily, the Mayor of The Hague will open this unique exhibition. In this exhibition, you can see all the important historical milestones of the Haags Dierencentrum. Will you drop by?
The Hague Animal Center Foundation 150 years!
Save the date!
September 1, 2027
A beautiful journey through the history of The Hague Animal Centre.
From 1877 until now, 150 years later.
Stay tuned!
Stay up to date with all events surrounding the 150th anniversary of the Haags Dierencentrum. Sign up for the newsletter
You make the difference!
Without you, there would be no 150 years of The Hague Animal Centre.
We would like to say a huge thank you to every donor, volunteer, staff member, and sponsor!
Practical information
📍 Atrium The Hague (City Hall), Spui 70, 2511 BT The Hague
📅 Wednesday, September 1 to Thursday, September 30, 2027
🕒 Mon to Wed and Fri 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Thu 7:00 AM – 9:30 PM, Sat 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Sun closed
🎟️ Free admission, no reservation required
🚆 A 10-minute walk from Den Haag Centraal and Den Haag HS. Plan your journey via 9292.nl
🚗 Stadhuis parking garage directly under the Atrium
♿ Fully wheelchair accessible
🐕 Feel free to bring your dog (on a leash)
A selection of historical moments
The foundation was laid when Maria Jacoba van Manen-Thesingh founded the very first official Dutch animal shelter for dogs and cats on September 1, 1877.
After an exciting move, they opened the doors of the brand-new animal shelter on Schenkweg in 1892 with immense pride – a beautiful historical step where it all truly began!
In 1980, a festive chapter was added when Queen Beatrix personally opened the new location on Schenkkade. Not much later, in 1992, the Haags Dierencentrum moved to the familiar Lozerlaan.
How time flies! In 2026, we launched two brand-new initiatives: the Kids Club, especially for all our young animal friends, and the Seniors Club. This way, we ensure that we can truly be there for both animals and people, from young to old!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "150 Years Together HDC" exhibition?
An exhibition about 150 years of the Haags Dierencentrum, the oldest animal centre in the Netherlands. With large panels, archival photos, and stories from staff, volunteers, and animals that found a home, you can take a look at our history from 1877 to the present day.
When and where can the exhibition be seen?
From Wednesday, September 1 to Thursday, September 30, 2027, in the Atrium of the City Hall, Spui 70 in The Hague. You are welcome during the Atrium’s opening hours: Monday to Wednesday and Friday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Thursday from 7:00 AM to 9:30 PM, and Saturday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The Atrium is closed on Sundays.
Is there an admission fee and do I need to reserve?
No, the exhibition is free for everyone and no reservation is necessary. Just walk in whenever it suits you.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes! Leashed dogs and assistance dogs are welcome in the Atrium. As far as we’re concerned, your four-legged friend is naturally part of the family.
Is the exhibition suitable for children and accessible to everyone?
Yes, the exhibition is for all ages. The Atrium is fully wheelchair accessible. The City Hall is a ten-minute walk from Den Haag Centraal and Den Haag HS, and the Stadhuis parking garage is located directly beneath the Atrium.
How can I support the Haags Dierencentrum during the anniversary year?
You can make a donation, become a volunteer, or sign up for our newsletter to stay informed about all anniversary activities. Every contribution helps us continue providing a good home for animals in the years to come.
Can we help you?
Contact details Haags Dierencentrum
Please note: we are open by appointment only.
Address
Opening hours
We are open by appointment only.
- Monday to Saturday 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM
- Closed on Sundays
We can be reached by phone between 9:00 AM and 11:30 AM & 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM.
