Castle De Haar
Castle in Amsterdam
Castle De Haar, located in the village of Haarzuilens near Utrecht, is the largest and most luxurious castle in the Netherlands. Originally dating back to the 14th century, it was spectacularly rebuilt between 1892 and 1912 by architect Pierre Cuypers, commissioned by Baron Etienne van Zuylen van Nyevelt and his wife, Baroness Hélène de Rothschild. The result is a fairy-tale fortress with turrets, moats, drawbridges, and lavish interiors that blend medieval charm with 20th-century opulence. The castle’s history is deeply intertwined with the Van Zuylen and Rothschild families, whose legacy is reflected in the décor and architecture.
Inside, visitors are treated to a visual feast of richly carved woodwork, stained glass windows, antique tapestries, and porcelain from Asia and Europe. The castle boasts over 200 rooms, though only a select few are open to the public. Highlights include the Knight’s Hall, the grand dining room, and the Japanese shōgun’s carriage—one of only two in existence. Guided tours and multilingual audio guides bring the stories of aristocratic life and celebrity guests like Brigitte Bardot and Roger Moore to life.
Surrounding the castle is a sprawling 135-acre park designed in the style of Versailles, complete with rose gardens, deer parks, and romantic bridges. Seasonal events like the Elfia Fantasy Fair and the Country & Christmas Fair add a whimsical touch to the grounds. Whether you’re wandering through the manicured gardens or exploring the castle’s ornate halls, Castle De Haar offers a captivating blend of history, art, and fantasy that makes it one of the Netherlands’ most enchanting destinations.
The Castle De Haar appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Amsterdam!
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Visiting Castle De Haar
Daily from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM (last entry at 3:30 PM)
€19
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National Park in Antwerp
