Reghthuys & Reghthuystoren - Nieuwkoop

The Reghthuys was built in 1628 on the instructions of Johan de Bruyn van Buytewech, then ‘Lord and Master’ of the Nieuwkoop manor. It originally served as a courthouse and administrative centre, with a dungeon at the bottom for the temporary imprisonment of convicts. In the 18th century, the building was converted into a town hall, a function it retained until 1933. After a period of decline, the building was purchased by the Hendrick de Keyser Association in 1949 and thoroughly restored between 1959 and 1961. Since 1964, the Reghthuys has been the home of the ‘t Reghthuys Cultural Association, which organises exhibitions, lectures, music performances and other cultural activities there.

Architecturally, the Reghthuys is characterised by a richly detailed gable with pilasters, wooden cross windows, shutters and a pediment with a carved lion rampant. Above the entrance is a statue of Lady Justice and the motto ‘Discite Ivstitiam’ (‘Learn justice’).

The Reghthuystoren, built in 1627, was originally part of the ‘Hooghe Huys’, the residence of Johan de Bruyn van Buytewech. Although the residence was demolished in the 19th century, the tower was preserved. It is a slender brick structure with an elegant wooden octagon and an open pear-shaped crown. The tower was restored between 1955 and 1958.

You can climb the tower in groups and by appointment. On a clear day, you can even see Amsterdam and Rotterdam!

Photo: ©National Archives