Château de Voorst

Chateau de Voorst is a medieval fortress site in Zwolle featuring the remains of oval-shaped defensive walls with multiple moats that once protected the stronghold. The archaeological site lies within present-day Stinspark, where visitors can see the layout of what was once an important regional fortification.

The original fortress was destroyed in 1224 during a revolt by knights and peasants from Salland against Utrecht Bishop Otto II. This destruction marked the end of the early stronghold's role in the region until later rebuilding efforts took place.

The Van Voorst lords demonstrated their regional power by minting their own currency, a privilege reserved for select cities and castle rulers.

The site is now integrated into a public park where visitors can walk among the earthworks and see the layout of the original fortress. Spring and summer months offer better ground visibility and access to explore the archaeological features on foot.

An iron door from a later 1362 siege survived the fortress destruction and is now preserved at Kampen city hall. This artifact endured even a fire in 1543, testament to its remarkable durability through centuries of change.