The Markiezenhof is the oldest city palace in the Netherlands and was built in 1485. This impressive building was once the residence of the Marquesses of Bergen op Zoom and is among the most beautiful city palaces in Western Europe. As soon as you walk into the courtyard, it feels as though you're stepping back in time a few centuries.

The construction was commissioned by Jan II and Jan III van Glymes and carried out by the renowned architects Anthonis and Rombout Keldermans. The palace was built in the late Gothic Brabantine style, with ornamental facades, towers and courtyards. In the early 18th century, an additional wing was added to the building in the French Classicist style, built for the Marquis François Egon de la Tour d’Auvergne. This means you can see two very different architectural styles side-by-side within a single complex.

For a long time, the Markiezenhof was the political and administrative heart of the marquisate. Jan III van Glymes was even a member of the Order of the Golden Fleece and possessed a secret seal for confidential documents. However, in 1726, the marquises left Bergen op Zoom and moved to Germany. The palace thus lost its royal function and was only used by officials thereafter.

Following the French conquest in 1795, the building completely lost its aristocratic residents. It successively became a military hospital and later a barracks. It was not until 1957 that the palace came into the possession of the municipality.

But it was eventually decided to restore the palace. The building was in very poor condition after the military had left, as is evident from the photos below.

From 1963 onwards, the Markiezenhof was restored to its former glory step by step. The restoration was completed in 1987, including the rebuilding of the large tower with the weathervane in the shape of a sea knight.

Today, the Markiezenhof is a vibrant museum. You can admire historic rooms, visit temporary exhibitions, and see the well-known funfair museum. It is also a popular venue for weddings and events — a palace that is once again full of life.

General information:

• Type: National Monument, city palace
• Built: 1485
• Address: Steenbergsestraat 8, Bergen op Zoom
• Visit: Museum open Tue-Sun, 11:00-17:00
• Source: Museum Markiezenhof

This monument is found in this city tour.

Impressions