Discover history
As a visitor, be surprised by the fascinating past of this region. Descend into the atmospheric eastern cellars from the 14th century, creep into the prison church in the White Tower. Enjoy the view from castle towers or the castle terrace and discover the beautiful domain estates Rozendaal, Schrevenhof and Reigersbroek while walking from Castle Montfort. From 2017, a visit to Montfort Castle is also excellent to combine with a walk through the castle garden, redesigned in classicist style.
750 years in a nutshell
Castle Montfort was built around 1260 by Hendrik van Gelre, prince-bishop of Liege. After his death in 1285, Montfort became part of the county of Gelre. Under Duke Reinoud II of Gelre (1326-1343), the importance of the castle grew, resulting in an extensive renovation in 1342-1343. Until the end of the 15th century, the castle regularly functioned as a residence of the lord of the manor. In addition, it served as the official residence for the drossaard, who was responsible for the defense and administration of the office of Montfort.
Because of the rise of cannons, fortifications were added to Montfort Castle in 1535-1536, which played a military role until after the Eighty Years' War. In 1685-1686, the fortifications were demolished and the moats filled in. The remaining buildings served as the official residence for the drossaard, who had a symmetrical garden complex built on the south side of the Huysdijk.
In about 1780, the residential part of the castle was demolished, leaving only a ruin. Around 1850, a paper manufacturer from Roermond built an octagonal brick country house on the northeast corner of the ruin. This hunting lodge was restored in 2005-2006. In 2011, a large medieval basement complex was discovered, which was restored and opened to the public by the Montfort Castle Foundation between 2015 and 2017.
Location
The Place of Happiness is located opposite Montfort Castle, Huysdijk 4 Montfort. Parking is available near the castle.
Places of Happiness
Discover the 26 Places of Happiness in the municipality of Roerdalen. These places, designated by the inhabitants of Roerdalen as hidden pearls of happiness, are waiting for your discovery. Of these places, six have been specially designated as Children's Happiness Spots. You will find all the Places of Happiness in the centres of Herkenbosch, Vlodrop, Montfort, Posterholt, Sint Odiliënberg and Melick, as well as in the beautiful countryside. Go to the website of Klein geluk Roerdalen to explore these special places and see the full list.