Imagine, if you will, a count from the 11th century. He surveys his land in Vogelenzang. He decides this is where he will build his grafelijk Huis te Vogelenzang.
Welcome to the grounds of Huis te Vogelenzang. This estate boasts a rich history. It evolved through centuries of owners and architectural styles.
In the 13th century, Count Floris V constructed a hunting lodge. It was called De Voghelsanck. This shows the long history of nobility in this area.
Fast forward to 1610. Cornelis Reijersz, an Amsterdam goldsmith, buys the castle grounds. But in 1627, he sells it to Jacob Jacobsz. de Jongh. Only a hill remains of the original castle. De Jongh builds a new homestead on this hill.
By 1648, Jeronimo de Haze, Lord of Stabroek, acquires the estate. He transforms Huis te Vogelenzang into a luxurious retreat.
Before 1757, the estate must have been grand. Jan van Marselis Sr. buys the house and grounds. He also buys garden ornaments. These included statues, spheres, and benches. He bought them from the widow of Bartolomeo Andrioli.
Jan van Marselis Jr. inherits the estate in 1776. In 1778, he expands it. He purchases the neighboring Teylingerbosch. Marselis then commissions a large park. It features winding paths and ponds in early landscape style. Johann Georg Michael is credited with the park’s design.
In 1807, Willem Philip Barnaart buys both estates. J.D. Zocher Sr. likely further adjusted the garden in the early 19th century. At the start of the 20th century, Hendrik Copijn, a garden architect, remodels the garden again.
During the Second World War, Vogelenzang saw turbulent times. A V1 rocket launch site was installed nearby. Preparations began near Huis te Vogelenzang. In March 1945, German troops retreated. They blew up the V1 launch runways. The explosion damaged the house and surroundings.
In 1955, a campsite was set up on the estate. Today, descendants of Willem Barnaart live in the house. The estate welcomes walkers.
Huis te Vogelenzang is a national monument. It forms part of the Historical Estate Huis te Vogelenzang. This includes the garden, park, outbuildings, and Teylingerbosch.
The story of Huis te Vogelenzang is one of constant change. From a count’s residence to a luxurious estate, it reflects the changing tastes and times. Its grounds have witnessed both leisure and conflict. Today, it remains a testament to the enduring beauty of Dutch history. Take a moment to appreciate the blend of nature, architecture, and history that surrounds you.