Who was the visionary baron behind De Haar Castle? Discover how Etienne van Zuylen van Nijevelt created a unique world at the beginning of the 20th century during this special lecture series. From architecture and etiquette to gastronomy, carriages, and motoring: each lecture reveals a new facet of his extraordinary legacy.

Practical Information about the Lectures

The lectures will take place in the Chapel of De Haar Castle, from September 1 through 24 on weekdays from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Admission to the lectures is included with a valid castle or garden ticket. No advance registration is required—just drop in.

Are you planning to attend multiple lectures? Then a Gardens Annual Pass is a great value. It gives you one year of access to the gardens of De Haar Castle and allows you to attend every lecture throughout the month of September. You can purchase the Gardens Annual Pass here. Select “Castle Gardens Tickets” and then choose “Adult Gardens Annual Pass” on the next screen.

Baron Etienne van Zuylen van Nijevelt – The Man Behind the Castle

By Katrien Timmers – Curator at De Haar Castle

Who was the man who breathed new life into De Haar Castle? During this lecture, you’ll learn about Baron Etienne van Zuylen van Nijevelt: visionary, entrepreneur, and the driving force behind the castle’s reconstruction. Discover how his ambitions, international network, and love of heritage contributed to the iconic De Haar Castle as we know it today.

Held on Tuesday, September 1, Monday, September 7, and Monday, September 14, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The Equestrian World of De Haar Castle

By Mario Broekhuis – horse-drawn carriage expert

Horses played an indispensable role in the life of the Van Zuylen van Nijevelt family. Horse-drawn carriage expert Mario Broekhuis takes you on a journey into the fascinating world of carriages, horses, and equestrian traditions at De Haar Castle. A lecture filled with extraordinary stories about luxurious carriages, impressive stables, and the importance of horses in aristocratic life.

Held on Wednesday, September 2, and Wednesday, September 16, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

“This village—I still remember what it was like…”

By Paul Rozmus – a concerned resident of Haarzuilens

What is it like to grow up in Haarzuilens, a village so closely intertwined with the castle and the noble family? Paul Rozmus was born and raised in Haarzuilens; he went to school with the baronesses, visited the castle as a child, and was addressed by the forest ranger. Drawing on his own experiences during the last decades of the 20th century, he brings the village and the family to life.

Held on Thursday, September 3, and Thursday, September 17, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The Reconstruction of De Haar Castle

By Wies van Leeuwen – architectural historian

At the end of the nineteenth century, one of the largest restoration projects in the Netherlands began. Wies van Leeuwen tells the impressive story of the collaboration between architect Pierre Cuypers, Baron Etienne, and Baroness Hélène. Discover how a medieval ruin was transformed into the impressive castle that attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Take place on Friday, September 4, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The Culinary World of De Haar Castle

By Christianne Muusers – culinary historian

What was served during the September residence? Culinary historian Christianne Muusers takes you on a journey through the culinary world of De Haar Castle. What did the family and their guests eat, where did the dishes and ingredients come from, and what does this reveal about life at the castle? Discover the flavors, customs, and international influences that shaped the dinners at De Haar.

Held on Tuesday, September 8, and Tuesday, September 22, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Etiquette at the Court of the Nobility

By Jan Jaap van Weering – etiquette expert

How were gentlemen and ladies expected to behave around 1900? Etiquette expert Jan Jaap van Weering takes you on a journey into the world of manners, social codes, and etiquette among the international elite. A fascinating glimpse into the rules that governed the daily life of the Van Zuylen family.

Held on Wednesday, September 9, and Wednesday, September 23, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The Van Zuylen Family Among the International Elite

By Ileen Montijn – historian

What made the Van Zuylen family so special? Historian Ileen Montijn places De Haar Castle and its residents in the context of the European elite around 1900. Discover how the family distinguished itself, what role it played within the Dutch nobility, and how international connections shaped their lives.

Held on Thursday, September 10, and Thursday, September 24, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Hunting, Equestrian Sports, and Polo

By Micha Peters – historian

Around 1900, sports were much more than just recreation; they were an important part of the lives of the international elite. Historian Micha Peters discusses hunting, equestrian sports, golf, and polo, and shows how these leisure activities helped shape the social life of the Van Zuylen family.

Take place on Friday, September 11, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The lecture on September 25 has been canceled.

Memories of the September Occupation

By Ronald Trüm – former castle employee

What was daily life like at De Haar Castle during the famous September residency? Former castle employee Ronald Trüm shares personal memories and firsthand stories about the preparations, the residents, and the special atmosphere that brought the castle to life every September. A unique opportunity to experience a piece of living history.

Take place on Tuesday, September 15, and Monday, September 21, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The Rise of the Automobile

By Peter Staal – Director of KNAC

Baron Etienne was not only a horse enthusiast but also a pioneer in the field of automobiles. Peter Staal, director of the KNAC (Royal Dutch Automobile Club), will discuss the rise of the automobile in Europe, the baron’s fascination with technology and speed, and the significance of the automobile for the Van Zuylen family. A lecture where history and innovation come together.

Take place on Friday, September 18, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

A September tradition at De Haar Castle

Immerse yourself in the world of the baron. The lectures are just one part of the September Residence. There are many more activities to enjoy in and around the castle. Take a guided tour, explore the historic rooms, stroll through the gardens, enjoy a concert in the Chapel, or participate in one of the many activities for all ages. There’s something new to discover every day.

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