Castles/Country Houses
In the Netherlands, ownership of a 17th or 18th century castle or estate was not restricted to royalty or nobility. Citizens who became rich through trade (especially during the 17th century) owned property and country estates. There are around 700 castles and country houses dotted around the country.
The provinces of Gelderland and Utrecht are home to many fine examples. At Middachten Estate near Arnhem, the 25th generation of owners is now taking care of the beautiful house and grounds. The moated Castle de Haar in Utrecht is connected to the de Rothschild family and previous castle guests included Brigitte Bardot, Roger Moore, Yves Saint Laurent, Coco Chanel and Joan Collins.