Spot street art

The Hague is known as the seat of government and the city of justice, but it also has a lively street art scene, and one of its most popular sights is Kattensteeg, the Cat Alley, a short passage off the Achterom in the old centre. Its walls have been covered in large, playful murals of cats in all kinds of poses, and the cheerful pictures transform what would otherwise be a plain side street into a favourite photo spot. It is a good example of how urban art can bring life to a corner of the city.

The project was organised to brighten the street and give it an identity, and a number of local artists were invited to paint cats of different styles. The murals vary from realistic portraits to cartoon characters, with bright colours and humour, and they invite visitors to look closely and search for details. The alley itself is narrow and the paintings can be seen in a couple of minutes, but it is the kind of place where you can linger and take photos.

The Hague as a whole has developed a reputation for street art. Murals appear on gable walls, building sides and bridges in the centre and in neighbourhoods outside the tourist areas, and organised routes lead visitors from one work to another. The city has hosted street art festivals and supports artists with legal walls, and the result is a changing outdoor gallery that is free to enjoy. Walking in search of murals is a good way to see parts of the city that visitors rarely reach.

The alley is close to the most famous sights of the old centre. The Binnenhof, the seat of the Dutch parliament, the Mauritshuis with its masterpieces, the Prison Gate museum, the Peace Palace and the Haags Kunstmuseum are all within walking distance, and the modern cultural centre Amare is also nearby. It is easy to combine a visit to the alley with a day of sightseeing, and the area has many cafes and shops.

The alley suits families, photographers and anyone who likes art outside museums. Visit in daylight, when the colours are brightest, and avoid blocking the narrow passage. Because street art changes, some murals may have been repainted since the last visit, so treat what you see as a snapshot.