Explore the history of the Netherlands through its magnificent castles and country houses. There are about 600 of them throughout the Netherlands – from historic fortresses to luxurious country houses. Some exude one and all history and are rooted in the traditions of the royal family of Holland and its ties to other royal houses. Many other castles and estates were also noble possessions. But in the Dutch Golden Age it was mainly the wealthy merchants of the provinces of Holland and Overijssel who had hundreds of luxurious country houses with beautifully landscaped gardens built as country houses. These estates were created over the centuries in a variety of architectural styles and garden designs. Best of all, many of these Dutch castles and country estates are now open to the public in the form of museums, family-friendly attractions, hotels, hostels or award-winning restaurants.