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The medieval residence De Haar was founded in the course of the fourteenth
century, on sediment deposits along a blind arm of the river Rhine. The
first references to the castle date back to 1391. De Haar, however, is really
special because - more than 100 years ago now - it was entirely restored
and partially rebuilt, resulting in a restoration unparalleled in Europe.
This involves not only the architecture, but also the interior and the gardens.
Even the church and the village were involved
in this project so that, without exaggeration, one could say it is a 'Gesamtkunstwerk'
(integrated work of art): this is the creation of a unique, special, world
in which all aspects of man's creative talents could flourish. Resurrection  De Haar already had its current, large pentagonal ground plan in the fifteenth century. It probably got this shape after the castle was destroyed in 1482 as a result of the quarrels between the Bishop and the city of Utrecht.  After
this, the castle was rebuilt, but in the course of the eighteenth and nineteenth
century it fell into disrepair. The ruinous condition came to an end as
from 1890, when the young owner baron Etienne
van Zuylen van Nijevelt decided to have the
ancestral castle restored in grand style. In 1892 the first activities at
the castle started. In a few years time an impressive castle would arise
by incorporating the existing, still high-rising, fifteenth century walls.
Nowadays the result can be viewed by anyone who wishes to visit.Future restoration All possible efforts have been invested in De Haar Castle. This remarkable monument should be preserved for later generations. That is why in the near future a large and costly restoration will be carried out. The medieval foundations need special attention, since they have proven to be ill suited for the pressure of the building. During the restoration the gardens and side buildings will be accessible. |
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