This majestic house was built by a founder of the VOC [the famous Dutch trading association] in the 1740’s, in style of French architecture. For 100 years it was the family home. When there were no more heirs [6 daughters had no children] in the late 1800’s it was turned into a residence for well-to-do-widows. It was closed in 1999 because it could not be brought up to current standards for housing the elderly without destroying much of the architecture. Presently it is open TWO days a year when one may tour. It is bank-rolled by a very large fund established by the family. If you have watched Downtown Abbey the interior is that, especially the basement kitchen area.
