Mataram, Estate with protected monument status in Dalfsen, Netherlands
Mataram is an extensive estate in Dalfsen featuring ornamental water elements and artificial hills designed by Utrecht garden architect Hendrik van Lunteren. The grounds include several elevated areas connected by walking paths and hold protected monument status, though the main house remains off-limits to visitors.
Johannes van Rhijn acquired the estate in 1800 after gaining wealth in the East Indies, naming it after the sultanate where he had served as resident. The original house was demolished in 1901 and a new villa was built at a different location on the grounds, designed by Zwolle architect Mannes Meijerink.
The named features on the grounds, such as Dennenberg and the Chinese Tent, show how 19th century landscape design drew inspiration from distant lands and artistic movements. Walking through these areas today, visitors can see how historical taste in garden design shaped the land itself.
The grounds are open to visitors following designated walking paths that wind through the landscape. Comfortable footwear is recommended, and plan accordingly knowing that the main house and its immediate surroundings are not available for touring.
The estate exemplifies how 18th century landed gentry reshaped terrain by creating artificial elevations as scenic viewpoints across their properties. This approach allowed owners to engineer variety into flat landscapes and showcase their wealth through ambitious landscaping projects.
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