Muiderslot

Muiden, Netherlands, Netherlands

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Muiderslot is a well-preserved medieval castle in Muiden, Netherlands, built around 1280-1285 by Count Floris V of Holland at the strategic mouth of the Vecht River where it met the Zuiderzee, allowing him to collect tolls from passing trade ships.

Measuring about 32 by 35 meters with thick brick walls over 1.5 meters wide, round corner towers, a moat, and drawbridge, it was demolished around 1300 after conquest but rebuilt in the late 14th century by Albert I, Duke of Bavaria.

In the 17th century, under steward P.C. Hooft, it became a cultural hub for the Muiderkring literary circle with added gardens, later serving as a prison before restoration in the 19th century saved it from demolition, and it now operates as a museum showcasing its history.