Torentje

Torentje, literally "the little tower," is the nickname for the office of the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, housed in a small tower within the Binnenhof complex in The Hague. The Binnenhof sits along the Hofvijver and serves as the political heart of the Netherlands, housing the States General and the offices of the prime minister and other ministers. The Torentje is on the western edge of the complex, near the Ridderzaal, and is one of its most recognizable features.

Origins of the tower are medieval; over the centuries it has served various administrative and defensive functions. In the 20th century, the small tower became associated with the office of the prime minister, and since then it has functioned as the prime minister's official workplace and primary staff headquarters. The name "Torentje" is widely used in Dutch politics and media to refer to the prime minister's office, rather than to the person.

Access to the interior is restricted, but the exterior is a familiar sight for visitors and photographers. The Torentje is emblematic of the Dutch executive and is frequently depicted in discussions of Dutch government and state ceremonies.