Provinciaal Ziekenhuis, Historic psychiatric hospital and protected monument in Bloemendaal, Netherlands.
The Provincial Hospital features imposing brick architecture with multiple buildings spread across a 38-hectare site, including preserved historical structures, therapeutic facilities, and recreational amenities that once served as a self-contained community for psychiatric care.
Established in 1849 as 'Meer en Berg', this psychiatric institution was uniquely funded and managed entirely by the provincial government of North Holland, operating continuously until 1986 when it closed due to mental healthcare reforms.
During World War II, the hospital courageously sheltered nearly 200 Jewish refugees and resistance fighters, with staff members actively participating in underground activities while maintaining their medical duties under dangerous circumstances.
The former hospital complex was transformed into luxury residential housing in 2019, offering 35 high-end homes within the renovated historical buildings while preserving the original architectural features and monument status.
The facility maintained complete self-sufficiency as a mini-society with its own fire department, shoemaker, theater, football field, and swimming pool, creating an independent community that housed both patients and staff.
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