Muiderslot

Muiderslot Castle was built around 1285, probably by Count Floris V, who was murdered near the castle in 1296. It was rebuilt on the same site around 1370. It has been a National Museum since 1878.

Muiderslot Castle is a square moated castle with four round corner towers, a moat, and a drawbridge. It is surrounded by a herb garden, an orchard, and the restored Warmoeshof vegetable garden.

The castle served as a defense structure, a tollhouse, and a residence. In the 17th century, P.C. Hooft lived there as bailiff of Muiden. His summer gatherings formed the basis for the romantic myth of the Muiderkring (Muider Circle).

During the French period, the castle was used as a barracks and subsequently fell into disrepair. Demolition was threatened in 1825, but protests led to its preservation. Restorations followed in 1895 (by Pierre Cuypers), 1956–1972 (conservation), and from 1999 onwards (fortress and gardens).

The castle played a minor role during World War II. One of the towers housed people in hiding. The Knight's Hall was temporarily used as a temporary classroom.

The castle and fortress are owned by the State.

The castle and fortress are owned by the state. The museum has developed an interactive tour about World War II for schoolchildren.

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Source

• Text: TracesofWar
• Photos: TracesofWar