Kasteel Zijpendaal (Zypendaal Castle), Arnhem

Zypendaal Castle stands on the western edge of Arnhem as one of the city’s most refined historic estates, shaped by centuries of evolving ownership and landscape design. The present house dates largely from the mid-eighteenth century, when it was rebuilt for the Brantsen family, an influential dynasty that played a significant role in regional politics. Its elegant façade, overlooking the water and framed by mature parkland, reflects the taste of the period, blending classical proportions with a restrained decorative style. Though the site had earlier manor houses, this reconstruction established the appearance visitors recognise today, creating a residence meant to harmonise with the surrounding countryside while demonstrating the status of its owners.

Inside, visitors encounter a sequence of formally arranged rooms that preserve the atmosphere of an eighteenth-century country house. Decorative plasterwork, high ceilings, and tall windows emphasise openness and symmetry, while surviving furnishings and period details highlight the house’s long domestic life. The estate later became part of the city’s public green spaces, adding a cultural layer that connects private heritage with Arnhem’s wider landscape tradition. Nearby water features, winding paths, and historic vistas contribute to the estate’s calm character, making the area a rewarding place for an unhurried visit.

Today, Zypendaal Castle serves primarily as a venue for events and civic occasions, yet its architectural presence and park setting continue to attract those interested in Arnhem’s heritage. For travellers exploring the city’s historic quarters, the castle offers a graceful contrast to the urban centre and a tangible link to the region’s aristocratic past.