Above you see the likeness of Prins Willem I (Prince William I) of Orange, Count of Nassau-Dillenburg, known as William the Silent, founder of the House of Orange-Nassau (the dutch royal family). His mausoleum stands in the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) in nearby Delft, the city where he was assassinated in 1584.
The monument was constructed 30 years after his death. The front is flanked by statues representing Liberty and Justice (Religion and Strength/Valour are at the back).
There are two likenesses of the prince; the bronze statue seated at the front (left), and the marble tomb (above). At the base of his tomb (below) lies his dog; legend has it that the dog refused to eat or drink after his master's death, and so he lies eternally cast in stone at Willem's feet.
Prince Willem is a national hero for his battles against the Spaniards, who during his time controlled the country and persecuted dutch protestants. Following Willem's death, all dutch royals have been buried in the royal crypt at this church. The House of Orange crypts in Breda could not be reached at the time of Willem's death because that part of the Netherlands was under Spanish control.
A big "thank you" to all who visited and commented on yesterday's Theme Day blog. Like me, a number of bloggers are continuing the theme this week; check back for more cemetery/grave postings.
9 comments:
Dogs are like that when the master dies and they don't get to see or smell them dead. We always let our dogs smell the person or dog that died. They seem to accept it then and only then. Otherwise they would want to lay on the graves or on the master's bed if the master was taken away and buried.
Interesting post.
Wow wow wow you've got some very nice looking tombs in the Netherlands! I love everything about Europe: tranquil, civilised and beautiful; even the tombs can look so elegant and resplendant!
I'm from Singapore and it's modernising far too quickly over here. Skyscrapers everywhere and not a trace of nostalgia.
Oh, I'll be visiting the Netherlands as part of a tour package this November. Looking forward to witness the windmills for myself!
Here's my photo blog:
www.veryclicky.blogspot.com
Great series of photos! Wonderful information on the subject of the photos as well.
Another wonderful post. The royal tomb is splendid and exquisite. What a handsome man Willem was. Last year we visited dear friends in Holland who showed us around. Delft turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip. Your photos bring back lovely memories. Thank you.
Love seeing this, most interesting architecturally, battles are never ending it seems unfortunately.
Wow! This is spectacular. I wonder how long it took to do all those carvings.
Very interesting. . .As I said somewhere else, it's amazing what we learn through CDPB!
Wow! What a tribute!
omigosh these are so awesome and ornate (and I do love learning about all the House of Orange!)
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