Huis ten Bosch, Maarssen, 17th-century country house in Maarssen, Netherlands
Huis ten Bosch is a stately country house featuring a raised central section with Ionic pilasters and a triangular gable that exemplify Dutch classical design from the 1600s. The interior preserves original brick pillars and intricately decorated ceilings that showcase the craftsmanship of its era.
Built in 1628 by the renowned architect Jacob van Campen for merchant Pieter Belten and his wife Constantia Coymans, the house represents early Dutch classical architecture. It later served as Maarssen's town hall from 1922 to 1962 before undergoing significant restoration to recover its original appearance.
The house embodies the status and taste of wealthy merchants from its era, with its refined classical design reflecting the prosperity along the Vecht River. Its period as the town's administrative center also made it a symbol of local governance and community life.
The building is located at Zandweg 44 in Maarssen and holds protected monument status, which means its original features are carefully maintained. Since it remains a private residence, viewing is best enjoyed from outside or by checking locally for any occasional open-house events.
The house was designed by Jacob van Campen, one of the most influential architects of Dutch classical architecture, linking it to other major buildings of the era. This connection to a master architect makes it particularly notable in the history of the country's architectural development.
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