A Castle by the Dutch Dunes. Keukenhof, a Fascinating Piece of Architectural History

In the South Holland municipality of Lisse lies the area of dunes once known as Keukenduin van Teylingen. A name that points to the fact that the produce of these dunes was destined for the household of Teylingen. Teylingen, which in the first half of the fifteenth century was still inhabited by Jacoba Countess of Bavaria. The present-day Keukenhof Castle is situated next to the grounds of the world-famous bulb exhibition gardens of the same name. Once laid out for ‘pleasure, use and power' it is an unknown jewel, that until a few years ago was still the private home of Carel, Count of Lynden. Anyone who visits Keukenhof Castle today can really experience the atmosphere of earlier times. House and furniture are so approachable and accessible that, whether standing in front of the huge oven in the kitchen or wandering through the marvellous library and period rooms, one quickly imagines oneself a resident rather than a visitor. A museum without attendants and without ropes. In all of this Keukenhof is a constant pleasant surprise.