Located in the charming town of Muiden, just a short distance from Amsterdam, Castle Muiderslot is one of the most well-preserved medieval castles in the Netherlands. This stunning fortress, with its impressive towers and moats, transports visitors back in time to the days of knights and nobility. While the castle itself is a fascinating piece of history, the gardens surrounding Muiderslot are equally captivating, offering a lush and vibrant contrast to the castle’s stone walls.

As autumn approaches, the gardens of Muiderslot become the center of attention, particularly with the harvest of the castle’s famous plum orchards in September. This seasonal event is a highlight for both locals and visitors, celebrating the rich horticultural traditions of the castle grounds.

A Brief History of Muiderslot

Castle Muiderslot has a history that dates back to the late 13th century. It was originally built around 1285 by Count Floris V, who strategically positioned the castle near the mouth of the Vecht River, a vital trade route of the time. The castle’s location allowed it to control the river traffic and served as a defensive stronghold against potential invaders. Floris V’s original castle was destroyed in 1296 after his assassination, but it was rebuilt in 1370 by Albert I, Duke of Bavaria. The reconstructed Muiderslot, with its iconic square layout and round corner towers, has largely retained its medieval structure, making it a rare and valuable historical site.

Over the centuries, Muiderslot has served various roles, from a noble residence to a prison, and eventually as a museum. Today, it stands as a national heritage site, welcoming thousands of visitors each year who come to explore its storied halls, enjoy its exhibitions, and relax in its beautiful gardens.

The Gardens of Muiderslot

While the castle’s architecture and history are compelling, the gardens of Muiderslot offer a different kind of allure. The castle’s gardens have been meticulously restored to reflect the designs of the 17th century, a period when Muiderslot was a hub of cultural and intellectual activity. Under the ownership of P.C. Hooft, a famous Dutch writer and poet, the castle became a gathering place for artists, writers, and scientists. Hooft and his guests took great interest in the gardens, using them as a source of inspiration and a place for leisurely walks. Hooft often concluded letters with his famous greeting: Tot in de pruimentijd (See you when the prunes are ripe).

The gardens feature a variety of sections, including a kitchen garden, a herb garden, and an orchard. The kitchen garden is filled with vegetables and herbs that would have been commonly grown during the 17th century, providing a glimpse into the dietary habits of the castle’s inhabitants. The herb garden, with its aromatic plants, showcases the medicinal and culinary uses of herbs in historical times.

September: The Plum Harvest

One of the most delightful aspects of the Muiderslot gardens is the orchard, which is home to a variety of fruit trees, including apple, pear, and, most notably, plum trees. September is a particularly special time at Muiderslot because it marks the plum harvest, an event that draws both locals and tourists. The plum varieties grown at Muiderslot are traditional ones that have been cultivated in the region for centuries. The sight of the trees laden with ripe, juicy plums is a picturesque reminder of the castle’s agricultural heritage.

The plum harvest is celebrated with events that allow visitors to participate in the picking and tasting of the fruit. It’s an opportunity for guests to engage with the castle’s history in a hands-on way, enjoying the simple pleasure of gathering fruit in a setting that has changed little over the centuries. The plums harvested from the orchard are often used to make traditional Dutch plum dishes, such as cakes, jams, and preserves, which visitors can sample. This culinary connection adds an extra layer of sensory enjoyment to the experience of exploring Muiderslot.

A Living Historical Experience

Castle Muiderslot offers more than just a glimpse into the past; it provides a living historical experience where the rich heritage of the castle and its gardens can be seen, touched, and tasted. The gardens serve as a beautiful and fragrant backdrop to the castle’s impressive structure, making a visit to Muiderslot a multi-sensory journey through time. As the plum trees burst with fruit each September, they not only celebrate the end of the growing season but also the enduring legacy of one of the Netherlands’ most beloved historical landmarks.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a garden lover, or simply looking for a picturesque escape from the city, Castle Muiderslot and its gardens offer a perfect blend of culture, nature, and history. The annual plum harvest is a reminder of the castle’s deep connection to the land and its traditions, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the rich tapestry of Dutch heritage.

A simple and convenient way to reach Castle Muiderslot is with the Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket. The convenient multi-purpose ticket offers unlimited public transport by bus, tram, train and metro. It is possible to purchase the ticket online or at the I amsterdam Store and selected transport ticket counters. Tickets are available for one, two or three consecutive days, so that it is possible to use it for a day trip, weekend break or three-day excursion.