Juliana van Stolberg Park
Park at the Juliana van Stolberg Barracks
Have you ever heard of the Juliana van Stolberg Barracks in Amersfoort? If not, you've really missed something. This place has a rich history and has now been transformed into a super cool residential complex. In 1979, they said goodbye to military life and began demolishing most of the buildings. But, they left the long battalion buildings standing and converted them into apartments. They even created gardens out front!
Amersfoort used to be an important place for the army, especially in the 19th century. The barracks were originally built for infantry and could accommodate as many as 4,000 men. Imagine, sometimes as many as 30 men slept in one room! And during World War I, it was even so crowded with Belgian soldiers that they had to pitch tents.
Anyway...
Park at the Juliana van Stolberg Barracks
Have you ever heard of the Juliana van Stolberg Barracks in Amersfoort? If not, you've really missed something. This place has a rich history and has now been transformed into a super cool residential complex. In 1979, they said goodbye to military life and began demolishing most of the buildings. But, they left the long battalion buildings standing and converted them into apartments. They even created gardens out front!
Amersfoort used to be an important place for the army, especially in the 19th century. The barracks were originally built for infantry and could accommodate as many as 4,000 men. Imagine, sometimes as many as 30 men slept in one room! And during World War I, it was even so crowded with Belgian soldiers that they had to pitch tents.
Anyway, times change. The barracks lost its military function and the city of Amersfoort grew around it. Eventually they decided to tear down most of it, but thanks to some protest, they kept the main buildings. Now there is even a park with a skating rink and playground. How cool is that?
And oh yes, the barracks were named after Juliana van Stolberg, the mother of William of Orange. In the 1970s, she became hip again and they named schools and streets after her. So, next time you're in Amersfoort, be sure to check out this historic spot!