Nettelhorst, Historic castle ruins in Lochem, Netherlands
Nettelhorst is a 110-hectare complex with remains of a stair tower, a west wing, tree-lined avenues, and a double moat system. The surviving structures show the former layout and extent of this aristocratic estate.
The first documented mention dates to 1379 when Steven van Nettelhorst received the property, though evidence suggests an earlier structure existed before 1227. In the 17th century, a canal from the Berkel river was extended to the castle moat.
The name Nettelhorst comes from the family that shaped the estate for centuries. The standing walls and water features reflect its past importance as a noble residence in the region.
The estate holds the status of a protected Rijksmonument complex and is accessible via a bridge built in 2005 replacing an earlier dam. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear since the grounds are uneven and paths wind through wooded areas.
A canal from the Berkel river fed the castle moat in the 17th century and supplied a circular pond built specifically for raising carp. This specialized fish pond was an important part of the estate's food supply and reveals how nobles managed their country properties.
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