Permanent exhibition
The Nassaus of Breda
Castle, City and Country
Step into the world of The Nassaus of Breda, the permanent exhibition at Stedelijk Museum Breda. Historical objects, art, and captivating stories offer a surprising view of the city's history and the influential Nassaus.
Castle, City and Country
Did you know that the roots of the Dutch royal family lie in Breda? The grandeur of Breda is closely tied to the intriguing family history of the Oranje-Nassaus, a well-kept secret. Over 600 years ago, Johanna van Polanen, the wealthy heiress of the Lord of Breda, brought the city into the hands of the Nassaus through her marriage to Engelbrecht van Nassau
Generations of this family have shaped the city with their ambitions, extravagant parties, wealth, cunning, intrigues, struggles, and conflicts, from the undisputed power couple Hendrik III and Mencia de Mendoza to the famous Prince Willem of Orange. Their influence is visible everywhere: on the Grote Markt, in court houses, the fortifications, the impressive Grote Kerk with the Nassau tombs, and in the Castle of Breda, once a leading Renaissance palace.
A Journey through Three Centuries
Visitors embark on a journey through three centuries. It is a period of the rise, flourishing, and decline of Breda. The presence of the Nassaus secured the city a prominent place in the Low Countries. Step by step, the course of this significant history unfolds, ultimately leading to the Peace of Münster and the creation of the Netherlands as we know it today. And do you know the story of the ruse with the Turfschip? We reveal it here.
The multi-year program Royal Roots connects the history of the Nassaus of Breda with that of the city. The exhibition is part of this long-term cultural program.
