Hamtoren

Description

The "Hamtoren" is the remaining part of Castle Den Ham in #Vleuten (Utrecht), the Netherlands. Built around 1260 near a bend in the Oude Rijn, it served as a strategic residence tower. First mentioned in 1325, it was expanded over time, including a second tower after partial destruction in 1481. In 1536, it was recognized as a "ridderhofstad" granting noble rights. By 1872, most of the castle was demolished due to disrepair, leaving only the original tower. This tower, surrounded by a moat, has walls 1.5 meters thick and stands about 35 meters high including its turret. It has six floors and a basement, preserving medieval structures like beam layers and wall toilets.