Teylingen refers to both a historic medieval castle and a modern municipality in the province of South Holland. The name, dating back to the 10th century, is thought to derive from an Old Dutch term referring to a high, narrow ridge of dunes. This designation connects ancient defensive structures with a present-day community.
Teylingen Castle: A Historical Overview
Teylingen Castle originated in the 13th century, serving as a strategic stronghold to protect the north-south route and the Rhine dike. The Lords of Teylingen, first documented in 1143, were responsible for its construction. This fortress later became a hunting lodge for the Counts of Holland, coming into their possession around 1282 or 1283 when the original line of Teylingen lords ended.
The castle witnessed many historical events and hosted notable figures, including Jacoba of Bavaria, the Countess of Holland, Zeeland, and Hainaut. She spent her final years at Teylingen Castle, where she passed away in 1436.
The castle suffered extensive damage during the Eighty Years’ War (1570-1574) and was reduced to a ruin by Spanish forces. A fire in 1675 or 1677 severely damaged the donjon, leading to further decay and abandonment. Despite its ruined state, the site was nationalized in 1795 and later donated to the Dutch state in 1888 or 1889, marking it as an early example of national heritage preservation.
Architectural Legacy of Teylingen Castle
The physical remnants of Teylingen Castle stand as a testament to medieval defensive architecture. What survives today are the ruins of a 13th-century round water fortress. Its most prominent feature is the ring wall, or enceinte, measuring 37 meters in diameter, supported by internal buttresses.
A circular keep, or donjon, was integrated into this wall later in the 13th century, forming a central part of the castle’s defenses. The complex was historically surrounded by a moat, parts of which have been re-excavated to restore its original appearance. Little remains of the outer bailey or 14th-century residence.
Modern preservation efforts, particularly since 1888, have focused on consolidating the ruins to prevent further deterioration. These initiatives ensure that the castle’s architectural skeleton, including its circular layout and the remnants of its residential tower, continues to convey its historical significance.
The Municipality of Teylingen
The Municipality of Teylingen is situated in the Western Netherlands within the province of South Holland. It was established on January 1, 2006, through the merger of three former municipalities: Sassenheim, Voorhout, and Warmond. The new municipality adopted the name Teylingen, partly in recognition of the historic castle located in Voorhout, and partly because the name was already present across the constituent towns.
Teylingen is notable for its location within the “Dune and Bulb Region” (Duin- en Bollenstreek), an area renowned for its flower cultivation. This agricultural heritage shapes much of the surrounding landscape, with fields of blooming tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in spring.
The municipality borders several other communities, including Noordwijkerhout, Lisse, and Leiden. Its character as a modern community blends residential areas with agricultural land, reflecting its dual identity rooted in both historical legacy and contemporary economic activity.
Visiting Teylingen Castle
Teylingen Castle, located in the town of Voorhout, offers a destination for those interested in Dutch history and medieval architecture. The ruins are easily accessible. While the site is open year-round, specific visiting hours are observed from March to October, Saturdays and Sundays between 11:00 and 17:00.
Visitors should consult the castle’s official website for current information regarding opening hours and any applicable admission fees. The castle grounds also host various cultural events throughout the year, such as medieval markets and theatrical performances.
A visit to Teylingen Castle provides an opportunity to explore the remnants of a historical fortress. Guests can wander among the walls and the circular keep, gaining insight into medieval life and the region’s heritage.