Marquette Castle, known locally as Kasteel Marquette, is an enchanting 18th-century manor house located in the picturesque town of Heemskerk, Netherlands. This historic site, which stands on the grounds of the former 13th-century Heemskerk Castle, offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich past and architectural evolution.
The story of Marquette Castle begins with its predecessor, Heemskerk Castle, a round water castle that dates back to the 13th century. Known from various old pictures, this medieval fortress featured at least one building along its wall and later served as a walled garden with a pond. The original castle's defensive capabilities became obsolete over time, leading to its desertion in the late 14th century. By 1802, the last remnants of the water castle were demolished, leaving only the wide moats as a testament to its former glory.
The current Marquette Castle, a stately manor house, began to take shape in the first quarter of the 16th century when Daniël de Hertaing, Lord of Marquette-en-Ostrevant, acquired the property and renamed it after his lost lordship. The castle's transformation continued over the centuries, with significant contributions from various owners. In 1738-1741, Pieter Rendorp designed the elegant eastern wing with its distinctive double roof, avant-corps, and stone pilaster strips. The western wing, dating from around 1780, marked the castle's largest extension, although some parts were later demolished in the early 19th century.
Marquette Castle is a treasure trove of architectural and interior delights. The castle's three vaulted basements include a thick wall of 13th-century brick and a chapel from around 1555, whose entrance was discovered in the second basement. During a renovation in 1980, a fireplace dating from the 14th or 15th century was uncovered in the kitchen.
The interior of Marquette Castle is equally captivating. The corridor boasts a marble floor and stucco in the Louis XIV style, while the summer dining room features Louis XV style decor. One of the most intriguing rooms is the Chinese room, adorned with painted wallpaper. In 1911, the early 18th-century carpentry of the ballroom from nearby Assumburg Castle was incorporated into Marquette, adding to its historical charm.
The early history of Marquette Castle is closely tied to the Van Heemskerk family. Count William II of Holland, who ruled from 1247 to 1256, ordered the construction of roads and castles to subdue the West Frisians, leading to the creation of Heemskerk Castle. Gerard III van Heemskerk, a prominent leader during the Hook and Cod wars, held Dirk III van Brederode prisoner at Marquette in 1354. In 1358, Gerard's son Wouter van Heemskerk attempted to assassinate Reinoud van Brederode, resulting in a siege of the castle by Count Albert's forces. The castle surrendered in 1359, and Wouter was allowed to leave with some of his possessions.
In 1475, Joost van Strijen, Lord of Zevenbergen, inherited Heemskerk Castle. His sister, Maria van Strijen van Zevenbergen, transferred it to her son Corneille of Berghes in 1529. Corneille, who became the Prince-Bishop of Liège in 1538, later resigned and married in 1544. He died without legal offspring in 1560.
Jean de Ligne, Duke of Arenberg, inherited Heemskerk Castle in 1560. The castle changed hands during the Eighty Years' War, and the family eventually sold it during the Twelve Years' Truce.
In 1610, Daniël de Hertaing purchased Heemskerk Castle and renamed it Marquette Castle. His family, including his sons Willem, Hendrik, and Colonel Maximilian, owned the castle until 1655, when Petronella, Baroness of Wassenaar and Duvenvoorde, succeeded them.
The Rendorp family played a significant role in shaping Marquette Castle. Joachim Rendorp, an Amsterdam brewer and mayor, bought the castle in 1717. His son Pieter Rendorp, an amateur architect, made substantial changes to the castle. The family's fortunes declined during the French period, leading to the demolition of some parts of the castle.
In 1855, Jacob van Rendorp van Marquette's daughter Paulina married Jan Hugo Gevers. Their son Hugo became mayor of Heemskerk in 1888 and lived at the castle. After Hugo's death in 1921, the castle was left uninhabited until Abraham Gevers and his wife Christine settled there after World War II.
In 1977, the estate was sold to BV Onroerende Goederen Maatschappij de Omval, and the province of Noord-Holland purchased the land in 1980. The castle was renovated and briefly operated as a conference and party center. In 1984, the Swiss Sodereal Group acquired the castle, reopening it with a nearby hotel. Today, Marquette Castle is a charming venue for events and a testament to the rich history of Heemskerk.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a picturesque escape, Marquette Castle offers a captivating journey through time and a glimpse into the grandeur of the past. Explore its storied halls, marvel at its architectural beauty, and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of this Dutch gem.
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