Radboud Castle

Radboud Castle, known locally as Kasteel Radboud, is a historic fortress situated on the east bank of the harbour in Medemblik, North Holland, Netherlands. Commissioned by Floris V, Count of Holland, the structure was completed prior to the devastating St. Lucia's Flood of December 1287, making it one of the region's oldest surviving castles. Architecturally classified as a dwangburcht, or coercive castle, it was originally designed to assert control over the local Frisian population. Although its defensive capabilities diminished after city walls were erected around Medemblik in 1572, leading to periods of neglect and partial dismantling, the main structure has remained intact through centuries of change.

The castle holds significant historical importance due to its role in several pivotal events. In 1517, it served as a crucial refuge for townsfolk fleeing the violent raids of the pirate Grutte Pier and his Arumer Zwarte Hoop. Later, in 1588, the fortress surrendered to Diederik Sonoy and the Geuzen during the Dutch Revolt. Following its return to state ownership in 1889, the building underwent extensive restoration under State architect J. van Lokhorst, with advice from renowned architect P.J.H. Cuypers. It subsequently functioned as a district court until 1934. Notably, during the onset of World War II in September 1939, Rembrandt's masterpiece The Night Watch was temporarily stored within its walls for safekeeping before being moved to a bunker.

Today, Radboud Castle is owned by the Dutch state and operates primarily as a museum, offering limited public access to visitors interested in its rich past. Further restorations conducted between 1964 and 1965 focused on correcting earlier renovations to ensure greater historical and architectural accuracy, including the restoration of the castle moat. As a designated Rijksmonument, it stands as a well-preserved example of medieval military architecture in West Friesland. The site continues to educate the public about the area's turbulent history, ranging from medieval conflicts and piracy to its surprising role in protecting national art treasures during modern warfare.