On 16 April 2026, it will be exactly 450 years since William of Orange signed the Act of Redemption. The decision ensured that no one in the Hague Forest, the Koekamp or on the Malieveld (names of famous green spaces and forests in The Hague) would be allowed to cut down trees for the sale of wood. Thanks to this promise, the Hague Forest is considered the Netherlands’ oldest protected forest and its oldest city park — an early milestone in Dutch nature conservation.
The Act of Redemption
The Act of Redemption dates from 1576 and was signed during the Eighty Years’ War. At the time, the States of Holland were short of money, and plans emerged that would have opened the way to large-scale logging in and around the Hague Forest. Local leaders and residents opposed this and argued for the preservation of the area’s nature and public value.
Through the Act of Redemption, William of Orange confirmed a long-term commitment on behalf of the authorities: the forest and its surroundings should remain protected, and trees should not be felled for profit.
“We've been protecting the Hague Forest for 450 years. This has inspired us to protect even more nature reserves. It's good to commemorate the importance of nature conservation in a green and festive way.”
Cultural heritage
For the history of The Hague — and for the wider story of nature protection in the Netherlands — the Act of Redemption remains an important reference point. It is also a timely reminder: safeguarding green space in cities is a long-term choice, and one that matters for residents’ everyday quality of life.
Stichting Bos dat van zichzelf is, one of the partners involved in the anniversary activities, points to the Act’s continuing value today: “A powerful method — because this beautiful forest is still here, in the heart of The Hague.”
The Hague Forest
The Hague Forest (Het Haagse Bos) is one of the city’s most valued green spaces. With centuries-old trees and well-used walking routes, it offers nature, recreation and calm within minutes of the city centre. The forest also surrounds Huis ten Bosch Palace, the royal residence where the King and his family live, underlining just how closely The Hague’s heritage and its greenery are intertwined.
Celebration
The Municipality of The Hague marked the upcoming anniversary early on 24 January, together with partners Staatsbosbeheer, Stichting Bos dat van zichzelf is and Meer Bomen Nu. On the Malieveld, residents could pick up a free set of plants, including a small tree and shrubs. The first 1,576 trees also received a commemorative certificate.
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