Kasteel Ravesteyn

The origins of Kasteel Ravesteyn likely date back to around 1250, when it was built by Hugo, Lord of Heenvliet. It was one of five fortifications in the region and the only one to survive. In the 14th century, the two-story castle was expanded with a residential wing, but suffered a fire in the same century that destroyed it to its foundations, after which it was rebuilt. In the 16th century, the castle continued to serve as a prison and military fortification. In 1572, Kasteel Ravesteyn was deliberately destroyed by the Sea Beggars during the Eighty Years' War to prevent it from falling into the hands of Spanish troops.