De Haar Castle. The Netherlands.

De Haar Castle is a magical building near Utrecht with a huge territory around it. This is the biggest and the most famous castle in the country.

It is known that the earliest record of this place dates to 1391. Since that time, this castle belonged to different families - de Haar, Zuylen, and Rothschild, but in 1892 there were only ruins and the whole complex needed restoration. Today the territory is surrounded by the moat as it used to be in old times.

The reconstruction was being made during 20 years, financed by Rothschild and Zuylen families. The castle was rebuilt and owners could live here. All buildings were used in the household then and do the same now.
This is the souvenirs' shop and you can buy entry tickets here, which cost 14 euro.

The rose garden was decorated in the French style. During the Second World War, people used to grow vegetables here. You can see the family crest in the garden, inside the castle and even on the cutlery.

The garden was made in the English style. The main architect ordered 7 000 grown trees to plant here.

There is also a small Catholic chapel.

All buildings on the territory are decorated with white and red color.

The castle itself is surrounded by one more moat. You should definitely go inside the building and you'll be impressed how comfortable and luxury it is. Do you know, that after renovation the owners lived here every September? They used to organize huge parties with movie stars and other celebrities. This castle had everything and more, that it could have those times.

Some people said, that even kings lived poorlier than De Haar owners, but today almost all territory belongs to the foundation Castle De Haar. Nevertheless, they still have right to live here and some buildings remain to be private property.

The quickest way to get here is by car. So take your family or friends and have a great time here.