Rozendaal Castle & Gardens: A Journey Through Dutch Noble History 🏰🌷

Step into a fairytale at Rozendaal Castle, one of the Netherlands' best-preserved medieval treasures, where every stone whispers stories of counts, architects, and landscape artists. The Castle That Defied Time ⏳ • Origins in 1314: First mentioned in historical documents as the residence of Count Renaud I, whose family ruled for generations 📜 • Architectural Marvel: The perfectly preserved round tower stands as a proud example of 14th-century military architecture 🏗️ • Ownership Saga: Passed from the Counts of Gelre to judicial lord William Scherpenzeel, then radically transformed by the Van Dorth family in 1579 🔑 The Gardens: Where French Elegance Meets Dutch Practicality 🌿 1732 Renaissance: Baron Lubbert Torck Adolf collaborated with famed architect Daniel Marot to create formal French-style gardens ✂️ Lost & Found: The original medieval docks and ponds removed by Dirck van Dorth were rediscovered during 20th-century excavations 💦 Seasonal Magic: Spring brings carpets of bluebells, while autumn sets the beech hedges ablaze with color 🍂 Inside the Castle Walls 🖼️ Count's Chamber: Original 17th-century leather wall coverings stamped with gold leaf ✨ Armory Collection: Rare 15th-century crossbows displayed alongside ceremonial swords ⚔️ Secret Passage: Hidden staircases that once allowed servants to move invisibly 🚪 Why Visitors Fall Under Its Spell 🌟 Photographer's Paradise: That iconic round tower reflected in the moat at sunset 📸 History Comes Alive: Costumed guides reenact the 1579 sale negotiations 🎭 Unexpected Wildlife: Kingfishers darting across the restored ponds 🦜 Visitor Tips: 🕒 Open April-October (check for medieval festivals) 🚂 Easy day trip from Arnhem (25 min by car) 🍰 Don't miss the castle café's "Count's Chocolate Cake" recipe #DutchCastles #HiddenHistory #GardenLovers #MedievalMagic