Welgelegen, borg

Welgelegen is a historic manor house from the 17th century in Sappemeer with symmetrical architecture, a hipped roof with blue glazed tiles, and five chimneys. The interior contains a marble fountain in Louis XIV style within the main hall and is surrounded by a neobaroque garden featuring a pond system and structured grounds.

The house was built in 1655 for Jan Cornelis Spiel and served as the administrative center for peat extraction operations managed by the Borger Compagnie in the area. The estate evolved as a symbol of economic power and has undergone multiple restorations since the 1960s to maintain its historical character.

The garden displays neobaroque design from the early 20th century with two ponds forming a canal system, arranged flowerbeds, and pathways along the water. Visitors can see how the layout reflects the relationship between water and land, which holds special meaning in this flat Dutch region.

The gardens remain open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, while the house interior is accessible only during special events. It is wise to wear comfortable shoes since pathways lead through the estate and the flat surrounding area offers much to explore.

The house preserves two notable objects: an 18th-century fireplace from Groningen and a clock dating to 1688. These rare items stand as silent witnesses to the family who inhabited the estate across generations.

Location: Hoogezand-Sappemeer

Part of: Welgelegen

GPS coordinates: 53.15361,6.79222

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:45