Soestdijk

Soestdijk is a former palace in Baarn, Netherlands. It served as one of the four official residences of the Dutch Royal Family for much of the 20th century.

Originally built in the mid-17th century as a country estate, Soestdijk Palace gained prominence when William III, Prince of Orange (later King William III of England, Scotland, and Ireland), took up residence there in 1674. The palace was significantly expanded and remodeled in the 18th century.

However, Soestdijk is most closely associated with Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard, who lived there from 1937 until their deaths in 2004. The palace became a symbol of the monarchy in the post-war period, hosting numerous state visits and national celebrations. It was here that Queen Juliana often received members of the public on informal occasions.

Following Queen Juliana's death, the palace remained unoccupied for several years. It was eventually sold to a private investor who developed plans for its redevelopment into a conference center, hotel, and cultural venue. The palace and its surrounding gardens are now open to the public for tours and events. Soestdijk Palace remains a significant historical landmark in the Netherlands.