Muiderslot

11 June 2017,

Muiderslot is one of the most beautiful castles in Netherlands. Located in Muiden, only 50 minutes drive from Den Haag. Since parking lot near the castle was limited, we parked our car on the street, not far from the castle.

This medieval castle was built by Count Floris around 1285. He had many enemies, and one of them was Willem van Mechelen from Utrecht. His enemies kidnapped him and held prisoner in his own castle. Later, they took him away from castle and killed him. After his death, the castle was taken over by the Willem van Mechelen.

At the ticket office, we bought guided book for children to follow the tower route and knight route. It cost Eur 2, including a medal when children finish the route. We started the tower route first. It was a fun way to learn how to defend a castle. There were some games along the way, such as how to destroy your enemy by dropping stone from above.

After that, we followed the knight’s route. We can see the Count Floris room. There were display of the armour, coats of mail, swords and halberds. When we finished both tour, we went to the shop to get the medal. Before Kaeo got his medal, the lady in shop held a ceremony when somebody becomes a knight. Kaeo must got on his knee (the lady gave a pillow for his knee), and then the lady got a sword and touch his shoulder while saying now Kaeo has become a knight J It was surely exciting for children.

Then, we went to the Falconer tent. We saw three falcons there. We got some explanation (in Dutch) and we can go inside the tent to learn about hawking. Hawking was a sport for the nobility and wealthy people. The falcon used indicated a person’s rank. Eagle was only for emperor. King and queen can use Gyrfalcon. As for knight they had Saker Falcon.

Beside the castle, we can also explore the garden. The garden was used not only for decoration, but also for other useful things. They grew herbs and vegetables. They had section for medicinal herbs, kitchen herbs, herbs for dyeing and of course decorative herbs.

Muiderslot was really a nice place to spend, not only for adults, but also for children. They also provided picnic tables near the Falconer and near the garden.

From the castle, we explore a bit the town. It was a small town with nice view. We stopped at Ome Ko café by the river. Enjoying typical Dutch snacks while watching the boat passing by  in the river.