© Paul Paris, Amstelveen
As you can see, this medieval castle, not the most luxurious
accomodation anyhow, is surrounded by high water, wich makes
living conditions even less attractive and comfortable, especially
in the Middle Ages.
Photo
gallery |
Living in luxury:
castles, country seats and royal palaces
Nearly all Dutch castles were built in the Middle Ages.
They are mainly manifestations of the socio-political system
called feudalism. Public power was chiefly in the hands of
private individuals.
The building of bigger and stronger castles was among other
things connected with the crusades during which Europe came
to know oriental castle building. In the Netherlands these
medieval castles are often situated on river mouths or river
forks, which adds to a beautiful scenic location.
Country seats and stately homes came into fashion after the
Middle Ages when the defensive function of the castles became
less important.
Especially the beautiful scenic areas in the Netherlands such
as hills, riverbanks and inner dunes have many country seats,
a number of which can be visited, as for example Huize Doorn
where the former German emperor Wilhem II went into exile
after the first World War.
The royal palaces in the Netherlands are not such magnificent
buildings like Versaillles, but residences of a more modest
size where the king or prince lived.
The former royal summer residence with Versailles-style palace
garden of the House of Orange is open to visitors.
Tell me more....>>
After making sure that everything is set for your holiday break; and after securing apartments Amsterdam, it is about time you finalize your itinerary and activities. Some of the must-see spots in Holland are the castles and palaces. |
