Huize De Paauw, Municipal hall and architectural complex in Wassenaar, Netherlands.
Huize De Paauw is a mansion featuring classical design with sandstone-colored facades and gilded accents in Wassenaar. It serves today as the town hall and houses the fire brigade museum in its basement.
The estate began in 1556 as Te Pau and grew significantly before the 1800s. Prince Frederik purchased it in 1838 and gave it its current name, while architect Hermann Wentzel added a ballroom with extensions in 1854.
The name De Paauw comes from the five peacock sculptures that decorate the facade and make the building instantly recognizable. Visitors can admire these ornamental carvings while walking around the mansion.
The building is accessible to visitors since it houses municipal services and a public museum. Those interested in exploring the fire brigade museum should check opening hours in advance.
A marble horse trough given as a gift from Tsar Alexander II of Russia stands before the main entrance, revealing historical ties to royalty. This rare 19th-century gift ranks among the most unusual elements on the entire property.
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