Castle Nijenrode, Medieval château in Breukelen, Netherlands.
Castle Nijenrode is a medieval fortress located on the banks of the Vecht River, displaying Dutch Renaissance style with characteristic brick and stone details. Two drawbridges span the surrounding water, creating the castle's distinctive moated appearance.
The castle was founded in 1275 when Gerard Splinter van Ruwiel commissioned its construction on the riverbank. It endured multiple destructions over subsequent centuries but was repeatedly restored and adapted to new uses.
The castle now hosts Nyenrode Business University, blending its medieval walls with contemporary academic activity and student life. Visitors can observe how the historic space functions as a living learning environment rather than a frozen monument.
The castle interior is accessible only through scheduled guided tours that visitors must book in advance. The surrounding grounds and park areas are open during designated visiting hours.
The castle survived the French occupation of 1672 and a subsequent fire in 1673 through restoration efforts led by Amsterdam merchant Joan Ortt. His investments shaped much of the building visitors see today.
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