The Markiezenhof (Marquises Palace) is one of the top 100 Dutch monuments. It was built in 1485 for the greater glory of the Lords, later Marquises of Bergen op Zoom. By 1514 the Markiezenhof had assumed its current dimensions.

Right up until the 18^th century the nobility of this area represented an important political and economic power-block, recognised far beyond the borders of The Netherlands. After Bergen op Zoom had passed its peak in terms of economic growth it then took on significance as a garrison town.

From 1819 up until the beginning of the last century the Marquises Palace was used as an infantry barracks by the Dutch military. In spite of the intensive use of the building by the infantry units over that period the building appears to have remained largely intact and suffered little damage as a result.

Between 1963 and 1987 the halls, corridors, towers, courtyards, gardens and galleries of the Markiezenhof were thoroughly and meticulously restored to their former original glory. The centrepiece of the building is the Great Hall with its ‘Christoffel open hearth fireplace' weighing over 15,000 kilos and dating from 1521.

http://www.geschiedkundigekringboz.nl/