Huis Bergh is a majestic medieval castle located in ‘s-Heerenberg, near the German border. One of the largest castles in the Netherlands, it stands out both for its architecture and for its exceptional collection of ancient art and medieval manuscripts.
Galerie photos
Michielverbeek, CC BY-SA 3.0 NL, via Wikimedia Commons
A castle steeped in history
Huis Bergh dates back to the 13th century and was for several centuries the residence of the Counts of Bergh. The castle has withstood the test of time, damaged several times, notably during the Dutch Revolt and a fire in 1735. It also served as a Catholic seminary between 1799 and 1842. Restored in the 20th century, it is now listed as a national monument.
A 20th-century revival
In 1912, industrialist and art collector Jan Herman van Heek purchased the estate and began its restoration. In 1939, the castle was struck by another fire, but most of the artworks were saved. A large-scale renovation campaign was carried out between 1939 and 1941 to restore its full splendor.
An outstanding art collection
The castle houses an impressive collection of early art, particularly Italian paintings from the 14th and 15th centuries. Among them is an original panel from Duccio di Buoninsegna’s Maestà, works by Neri di Bicci, Lorenzo Veneziano, and even a copy of a portrait of Erasmus by Holbein.
Manuscripts, sculptures, and rare objects
In addition to paintings, Huis Bergh also preserves magnificent medieval manuscripts, coins, armor, and religious sculptures. Notable manuscripts include a richly decorated 13th-century St. Jerome Bible and a 15th-century Flemish Book of Hours.
A vibrant cultural venue
Today, Huis Bergh hosts concerts, exhibitions, cultural events, and even offers stays in its historic rooms. It is at once a museum, a historic site, and a high-end hotel in the heart of the Gelderland region.