Bouvigne Castle. Breda, Netherlands

Bouvigne Castle, also known as Kasteel Bouvigne, is a picturesque castle located just outside the Ginneken district in North Brabant, near the Mastbos forest and the Markdal. Owned by the Brabantse Delta Water Board since 1972, the castle underwent restoration between 1975 and 1977, reopening in September 1977.

The exact origins of the castle remain a mystery, but it was first mentioned in 1494 as a walled stone house on the De Boeverie estate. Over the centuries, it has seen numerous renovations and expansions. In 1614, Philip William, Prince of Orange, acquired the castle, giving it a Renaissance appearance.

Historically, the castle served various purposes, including as a residence for the Princes of Orange and a headquarters during the siege of Breda in 1637. By the late 18th century, it had fallen into disrepair but was saved from demolition and renovated by George Ruysch, who also changed its name to Bouvigne.

The castle is surrounded by three unique gardens: a French garden from 1913, an English garden with a chapel built in 1932, and a German garden from the 1930s. These gardens are adorned with statues and are open to the public, offering a tranquil retreat.