Tower of Keenenburg Castle - Schipluiden

Just outside the centre of Schipluiden once stood Keenenburg Castle, an impressive moated fortress built around 1411 by Philips de Blote, an influential citizen of Delft. For centuries, the castle was home to prominent families, including the Van Egmonds. It suffered damage during the Eighty Years’ War but was restored. In 1798, it was eventually demolished.

Still, the Keenenburg has not vanished completely. Between 1966 and 1989, the original foundations were excavated. On that site, a tower was partially rebuilt in 1993. A viewing glass shows visitors what the castle once looked like. In the nearby village church, you can still find traces of its former residents, such as family crests and tombstones.

The Keenenburg Experience Foundation organises activities to bring the castle’s history to life, including guided tours and events. Museum Het Tramstation also features a special room with archaeological finds and a virtual reconstruction of the castle.

Curious about the story behind this lost castle? A short stop at the site and museum adds a rich historical layer to your bike ride.

Image: watercolour from 1728 by E. van der Burgh, public domain.