Muiden & Naarden
We did not go into Muiden, but stayed in a marina across from the castle which has a very deep history. It was built in 1280, torn down and built again. It is really lovely and maybe one day I will go back for a tour.
We did visit Naarden and I loved it! According to Wikipedia "Naarden was granted its city rights in 1300. In 1572, the city was sacked and burnt down, and only 60 people survived the Massacre of Naarden. The massacre was committed by Spanish soldiers against the townspeople of Naarden as part of a punitive expedition against Dutch rebels later known as the Spanish Fury. The destruction of the city galvanized the Dutch rebels, leading them to continue the Dutch War of Independence against Spain. Naarden is an example of a star fort, complete with fortified walls and a moat. The moat and walls have been restored on numerous occasions, most notably during the French era (1795-1814).The city's distinctive shape made it a rallying point for Allied bombers returning to England after raids on Germany."
I have visited a few star forts, and if you like those types of things like I do, then this is one to see. I think they may have modeled this on a few in France built by Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban, but I don't really know. All I do know is Naarden is fabulous and not to be missed. They have a great market on Saturdays, amazing little cafes and bars, and elegant and amazing art and furniture, if you happen to be looking to re-do your home while overseas.
At the marina in Muiden
The lovely castle at sunset.
The view from the Humdinger.
Getting ready to set sail and saying farewell to our neighbors!
The star fort of Naarden. (photo: Naarden Chamber of Commerce)
Taking tour through the walls of the fort. So beautiful. So peaceful, but it wasn't always. The massacre of the townspeople, the Nazis, the war after war. If these walls could talk, the things they would say.
After Naarden we set off for Huizen to park the boat for a few months and will return to see more of the Netherlands soon! Thank you for following along. It has been quite an adventure and this is only the beginning! There is so much of this gorgeous country to see, people to meet and things to eat/drink! I look forward to sharing more of it with you!
