 The restoration of Villa Westerveld is complete. The historical building – a national monument – was officially opened on Friday 17 April, 2009. This event marked a festive conclusion to the extensive renovations that began in July 2008.
Thorough renovation
Both the exterior and interior of Villa Westerveld were thoroughly renovated and rebuilt. The interior was rearranged and a new roof was fitted. Two funeral parlours were constructed on the ground floor and these will be open 24 hours a day. Next of kin will be issued with a key so they can visit and say farewell to their loved one at any time that suits them.
Oldest villa in Velsen
Villa Westerveld is the oldest villa in the Velsen municipality. The building was constructed in 1866 on the former Westerveld country estate. In the seventeenth century, it became popular among rich businessmen to build country estates in Kennemerland where they spent their summers. With their wonderful gardens, ponds, statues and terraces, these estates were status symbols.
The villa Westerveld, with its carriage house, stables, follies and grounds totalling more than 13 hectares, was sold in 1888. The Westerveld Cemetery – designed by the famous landscaper L.P. Zocher – was created on part of the Westerveld estate. From then on the villa served for a long time as a staff quarters.
Opening
After a speech by J.M.H.J. Keizer – President of 'the Facultatieve Group' – a statue was unveiled by all the guests together, adding a sense of fun to the opening of Villa Westerveld.
Westerveld is a part of 'the Facultatieve Group'. For more information, click here.
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