Exhibition 'Guided tour: In service of the nobility' in De Haar Castle
De Haar Castle opens doors that normally remain closed to visitors. The guided tour 'In service of the nobility' reveals the daily life of the staff who ensured the castle was run as an impeccable household. Visitors are given an exclusive glimpse into areas rarely visited by the noble family themselves, yet essential to life at De Haar.
The Van Zuylen van Nijevelt family stayed at the castle only a few weeks each year. The staff, however, worked year-round to maintain the estate and prepare for the family’s stays and their distinguished guests.
Out of Sight of the Guests
Being invisible as a servant was an important rule in aristocratic circles. Guests were to want for nothing, but all efforts had to remain hidden to preserve the illusion of effortless luxury. In addition, guests and residents needed to be able to go about their activities in complete freedom, without an audience.
The staff quarters were therefore tucked away on the top floor of the castle. Here slept the cooks, valets, servants, and chambermaids and linen maids—men and women housed separately.
Exceptional Comfort
During the tour, visitors experience how De Haar Castle was far ahead of its time in terms of comfort. While other castles at the end of the 19th century offered cold attics and cramped sleeping alcoves, the staff rooms at De Haar were equipped with running water, heating, and solid furnishings—amenities that were rare at the time.
Unique Stories
The staff used special corridors and staircases to move through the castle unseen. They were summoned via discreet bells and only appeared when absolutely necessary. The tour therefore leads visitors along narrow spiral staircases and wall-walks past hidden rooms and workspaces such as the linen and ironing rooms.
Along the way, the guide shares unique stories about the daily routines, concerns, and relationships among the staff. The tour offers a vivid picture of the hidden life behind the scenes at De Haar Castle.
Practical Information
The guided tour 'In service of the nobility' can be booked daily until 31 March for visitors to De Haar Castle at an additional cost of €5.00 per person. More information and reservations via kasteeldehaar.nl/indienstvandeadel.
