Helmond Castle

Construction of the Helmond castle began somewhere around 1325. Helmond was the replacement of an older castle, known as ‘t Oude Huys, which stood hundreds of yards west of the castle. In 1981, excavations revealed the original structure’s dungeon and a few artifacts.In the 12th century, Helmond was in possession of the Hornes and the castle’s original owners were the Berlaer family, who were then succeeded by the Cortenbach family. In the late 1600s, the castle would fall into the hands of the Arberg family and later Frederik Carel Wesselman in 1781.

A terrible fire damaged the west wing of the castle in 1549, but the structure was not demolished. In the late 1500s, attempts to besiege the castle were unsuccessful as the castle’s defenses were able to withstand the attacks. However, in the early 1600s, the castle was sieged by Prince Mauritis and State troops after the attackers launched 6 cannons at the castle. The damaged was repaired, but shortly after, the castle was once again besieged by Walen’s troops.

In 1921, the castle was sold to the municipality of Helmond by the last Lady of the family under the stipulation that the castle would be used for municipal purposes. The Lady’s wishes were respected and the castle served as a town hall from 1923 until the 1970s.Very little remains of the original interior of the castle as the structure had continually been updated throughout history. A few stucco ceilings and several fireplaces are the only original features.

Today, the castle still hosts weddings and houses a small museum that educates visitors on the history of the castle. Exhibitions include contemporary art collections as well as historical art and artifacts that educate the public about Helmond’s history.

References:

• Netherlands Tourism

Address

Kasteelplein 1, Helmond, Netherlands

Details

Founded: 1325
Category: Castles and fortifications in Netherlands