800 years of Duivenvoorde Castle in full bloom by Hilda Weges

Some photo's tell us not only about a place, but also about a moment in history. I took this photo at Duivenvoorde Castle in Voorschoten, where the 800th anniversary will be celebrated in 2026. In the grass in front of the castle, hundreds of orange flowers form the number 800: a colourful reference to eight centuries of history.

It was precisely this combination that caught my eye. In the background stands the stately castle, surrounded by the estate’s ancient trees. In the foreground lies the large floral number, playfully and almost naturally integrated into the green landscape. The centuries-old building and the temporary flowers create a striking contrast: something that has stood on this spot for generations, set against flowers that will bloom for just one season.

I love how the trees frame the castle on either side, naturally drawing your gaze towards the building. The bright summer light, the deep green and the tiny orange flowers lend the photograph a warm and festive feel.

For me, therefore, this photograph is not just about Duivenvoorde Castle. It is also about time. About a place that, over the centuries, has been inhabited, maintained and cherished by people time and time again. Eight centuries of history are almost impossible to imagine, but with a simple bouquet of flowers, that long history suddenly becomes very tangible.