Slot Loevestein

The origins of Slot Loevestein date back to the early 14th century, when a first watchtower was erected as a customs station for the counties of Holland and Gelderland. In the mid-14th century, Knight Dirk Loef van Horne, a vassal of Albert I of Bavaria, built the medieval core of the castle that is still visible today. During the Eighty Years' War, in 1572, the Geuzen under William I of Orange captured the complex. They surrounded the castle with ramparts, built accommodations for a garrison, and converted the medieval buildings into a prison. One of the most famous prisoners was Hugo Grotius, who managed to escape in 1621. In the 17th century, the castle was expanded into a pentagonal fortress and integrated into the Dutch Water Line. After a period of decay in the 18th century, Slot Loevestein was restored after the First World War and has housed a national museum since 1925.

Loevestein Castle is situated in Zaltbommel, in the province of Gelderland, within the Oost-Nederland region of the Netherlands. It is located at an elevation of approximately 9 meters above sea level.

Today, Slot Loevestein houses a national museum. The buildings and fortifications are accessible to the public.