As you walk into the Markt, it is impossible to miss the majestic façade of the Stadhuis (Delft City Hall), with its highly structured columns and arches. Hendrik de Keyser, one of the best architects of his time, designed this Renaissance style building in the 17th century. This was after all except the tower of the original 13th century Gothic-style building burned down. The sculpture of Justitia, Lady Justice, watches from the top.

As you step through the intricately-designed doors to enter the City Hall, you can admire the decorative painting of the Judgement of Solomon by Pieter van Bronckhorst amongst other fine works from the 16th to 18th centuries, as well as the Vierschaar (tribunal) with its arches. The handsomely decorated interior includes the Orange Gallery and the Council Chamber. As delightful as the City Hall is, it has its fair share of intrigue. Head to the back of the building to step into the tower “Het Steen”, or “the Stone”, which still houses a medieval prison, with torture instruments. Its most notorious prisoner was Balthasar Gérard, who assassinated William of Orange in 1584. Today, the City Hall is still used for civic events such as marriages. Be sure to visit the unforgettable Stradhuis on your trip to Delft!