With the festive reinstalment of the historic weather vane, the restoration of the monumental Bell Tower of Nijenrode Castle has reached its highest point today. The tower, which dates back to the 13th century, has been a defining landmark on the estate and in the Vecht region for centuries.
The restoration is part of a multi‑year programme by the Nyenrode Foundation to future‑proof the estate, including its monumental buildings and installations. Thanks in part to financial support from the Province of Utrecht’s Fonds Erfgoedparels and the Nyenrode Foundation Fund, the essential restoration of the tower could be carried out.
“The reinstalment of the weather vane is a special moment where history, craftsmanship, and the future come together,” says Guido Vlug, Manager Estate & Heritage at Nyenrode. “Thanks to the tremendous effort of all our partners and the support from the province, we can preserve this remarkable piece of heritage in all its glory for future generations.”
Restoring a Historic Icon
The recent restoration works included the renewal of the lead and slate roofing, the repair of damaged natural‑stone balusters, and the re‑gilding of the tower cross. With the highest point now reached, the moment approaches when the historic carillon — which includes bells from 1915 and 1928 — will once again be fully playable. University carillonneur Jan Willem Achterkamp will resume regular performances across the estate once the restoration is completed.
Craftsmanship and Close Collaboration
The restoration was carried out under the direction of Aannemingsbedrijf Kneppers, working in collaboration with Steenhouwerij Slotboom, roofing and plumbing company F. Bogaerts, Dejo Steigers, Royal Eijsbouts, and Van der Heijden Bliksembeveiliging. Project management was provided by Bureau Delfgou.
