Hagen

Hidden amidst the beautiful landscapes of the Dutch province of Gelderland lies a gem of historical and natural significance: Hagen, also known as Kasteel De Kelder. This former manor house, with its surrounding estate, is nestled on river dunes to the north of the Oude IJssel, between the bustling city of Doetinchem and the serene Kruisbergse forests. A visit to Hagen offers a journey through centuries of history, architectural marvels, and breathtaking natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

The History of Hagen

The origins of Hagen date back to the medieval period when it was established as a fortified farmstead. The estate was owned by a family of the so-called land nobility. During the Eighty Years' War, the nearby Sion Monastery was destroyed, but Hagen stood resilient. After a devastating fire in 1656, the house was rebuilt in its current form. By the early 20th century, De Kelder had various uses, including serving as a hunting lodge and later as a scout clubhouse. In 1934, following another significant fire, it underwent a complete restoration and was repurposed as a regional museum.

Ownership and Legacy

In the first half of the 19th century, Kasteel De Kelder and its estate came into the possession of the Van Pallandt family, where it remained for three generations. Frederik Willem Floris Theodorus, Baron van Pallandt, was the first of his family to own the estate. Upon his death, his son Adolf Werner Carel Willem inherited it, followed by his grandson Floris Baron van Pallandt. After Floris's death in 1902, his daughter Henriëtte Jeanne Adelaïde became the owner. She married Jonkheer Vincent Johan Gerard Beelaerts van Blokland, and upon her death in 1953, her son Jonkheer Vincent Pieter Adriaan Beelaerts van Blokland inherited the estate. In 1970, it passed to his youngest son, Jonkheer Floris Beelaerts van Blokland. In 1973, a significant portion of the estate, over 125 hectares, was sold to Geldersch Landschap & Kasteelen, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Architectural Marvels

Hagen's architecture is a testament to its storied past. The building is rectangular, measuring approximately 17 by 6 meters, and consists of three floors: a basement with a vaulted ceiling, the main floor, and an attic. The two side walls feature distinctive stepped gables. The name De Kelder (The Cellar) is derived from the generous basement of the building. The estate also includes several other significant structures, such as the orangerie and 't Pallandtje, which are national monuments, and the former coach house, a municipal monument.

A Natural Haven

Beyond its historical and architectural significance, Hagen is a natural sanctuary. Together with the adjacent areas of Wittebrink and Breukinkheide, it forms a nature reserve spanning 244 hectares, owned by Geldersch Landschap. This area is one of the most species-rich regions in the Netherlands. The landscape is a mosaic of high river dunes, fens, heathland, meadows, and arable fields. The dunes, formed from calcareous sand deposited 10,000 years ago, create a diverse ecosystem with a wide variety of plants and animals.

Efforts to maintain this biodiversity include the removal of a 4.5-hectare pine forest in the mid-1990s, making way for nutrient-poor soils with wet depressions, fens, and pools. This transformation has resulted in a rich variety of species, including gorse, bladderwort, sundew, and the rare floating bur-reed. In 2015, 22 different species of dragonflies were recorded in the area. The 'Grote Ven,' near Langerak, was dredged in 2007, and the surrounding grassland was stripped, allowing rare plant species to take root once more. The area is also home to amphibians such as the moor frog and the great crested newt.

Exploring Hagen

A visit to Hagen is like stepping back in time. As you wander through its grounds, you can almost hear the echoes of its storied past. The castle's impressive facade, with its red shutters and steep gables, stands as a testament to its resilience and beauty. Inside, the vaulted basement and the main floor offer a glimpse into the architectural ingenuity of the past. The surrounding estate, with its lush greenery and diverse flora and fauna, provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Hagen has something to offer. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant natural surroundings make it a unique and unforgettable destination. So, take a step back in time and immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Hagen, a true gem of the Netherlands.