Muderslot Castle

Maiderslot Castle is located in the province of North Holland, not far from the city of Harlem, Netherlands. It is one of the best preserved medieval castles in Holland.

According to historical documents, the first mention of the castle dates back to 1280, when the castle was already built, or it was built by Count Floris V. The castle is located at the mouth of the Vecht River, along which the route to the city of Utrecht passed. At that time, the castle was not large and was used as a place to collect duties from merchant ships. According to some reports, the owner of the castle was captured and killed, and the fortress itself, on the orders of Bishop Willem Mechelen, was destroyed. But after about 100 years, in 1370, the castle was restored, its towers and walls were enlarged. According to the plan, it was a quadrangular building with a tower in each corner. Around the castle are moats with water.

In the Middle Ages, the castle was used as a home for wealthy individuals and aristocrats. Later, at the end of the XVIII century, it began to be used as a prison, and during the French occupation it became a barracks. Subsequently, the castle came into disrepair and it was put up for sale with the possibility of parsing for building materials. King William I intervened and the castle was rebuilt. Only 70 years later did they have the money. In 1895, it was restored and transferred to the state.

At present, the castle is used as a branch of the state museum, there are collections of medieval weapons and portraits, as well as shows and TV shows.