Country estate Oranjewoud - Oranjewoud

It was the widow of the Frisian stadholder Willem Frederik van Nassau-Dietz who bought a state in Schoterwold in 1676. With this, Orange acquired property in 't Wold or 't Woud - Oranjewoud, in other words. A pleasure palace was to rise, but only two wings are realised. The architect Daniel Marot is then involved (and in later changes).

Later, the wings of the unfinished castle are demolished and in 1813 the property is auctioned off and split up. Ten years later, the core of the former stadholder property comes into the hands of Hans Willem de Blocq van Scheltema. On his orders, the present house with a raised central section and two lower side wings was built around 1830. The eastern side wing was extended again in 1845 and 1909. The house is now a meeting venue.

Opposite Oranjewoud Estate is the freely accessible walking park the Overtuin with beautiful ancient trees, winding footpaths, a herb garden and a gazebo. You can still taste the benevolent peace of yesteryear.

Photo: ©Rick0098b, Wikimedia