Groenestein, Historic gate of medieval castle in Langbroek, Netherlands
Groenestein is the remaining stone gate of a castle complex, standing on an arched bridge and representing the last visible element of the former fortified residence. The structure was built from stone and preserves its original appearance with characteristic gate arches and heraldic decorations.
Wilhelm de Ridder van Groenestein had the castle built between 1377 and 1414 while serving under Bishop Frederik van Blankenheim during the Arkel Wars. The original structure was later converted into a manor house between 1749 and 1760, though it was demolished in 1862 leaving only the gate.
The gate displays the coat of arms of the De Ridder van Groenesteyn family, who maintained close ties to nobility in Mainz. This family shaped the region through their connections to both religious and secular leaders.
The gate is part of the Sandenburg estate and can be reached via the first right turn after leaving Cothen towards Langbroek. The structure is visible year-round and can be viewed from the outside without any special conditions or access requirements.
The gate was long forgotten and only rediscovered in the mid-19th century during the documentation of Dutch monuments. Its survival owes much to its location within the Sandenburg estate, where it served as a landmark marking the property boundary.
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