Willem

In Willem – The Price of Freedom, we rewind the story of the Father of the Dutch Nation – from his death in Delft back to the beginnings of the Dutch Revolt in Breda. A powerful tale of murder, resistance, and conflict. The price of freedom: once paid by Willem van Oranje – and still paid today by many around the world.

This exhibition was created in collaboration with Museum Prinsenhof Delft.

From Breda to Delft and Back Again

For the first time, the life story of Willem van Oranje in both Delft and Breda is being presented as one narrative. While Museum Prinsenhof Delft is temporarily closed for renovations, a significant part of its collection is on special display in Breda.

One of the highlights is a cast of Willem's tomb monument. According to his will, he wished to be buried in Breda. But due to the Spanish occupation at the time, his body remained in Delft. Now, for the duration of the exhibition, he is symbolically laid to rest in Breda.

The Full Story: Murder, Resistance, and Conflict

It is Tuesday, 10 July 1584: the sound of three gunshots echoes through the Prinsenhof in Delft. Balthasar Gerards fires his weapon at Willem van Oranje. The prince dies instantly. A shocking moment in Dutch history — a story which began in Breda.

It is 1572: the Revolt against the Spanish king, Philip II, is in full swing when Willem seeks refuge in the St. Agatha Monastery in Delft. The building becomes known as the Prinsenhof. From his new headquarters, Willem continues his campaign with unrelenting determination.

It is 1544: Willem is just eleven years old when his cousin René of Chalon dies. Suddenly, he inherits the title of prince and the family estates. Now head of the influential Nassau dynasty in Breda, he moves into a grand palace. A golden future seems to lie ahead — but fate has other plans.

Tensions rise between Willem and Philip II, between Spain and the Low Countries. Willem becomes the face of the Revolt, risking everything: his wealth, his estates, and his family. In the end, he pays with his life.

A Story That Still Matters

Willem van Oranje died fighting for freedom – a struggle that continues around the world to this day. This exhibition draws a line from history to the present. In collaboration with Amnesty International, we shine a light on the ongoing fight for freedom and human rights.

Royal Roots

The multi-year cultural program Royal Roots connects the rich history of the Breda
Nassaus with the city as it is today — and it’s future.

Complete your visit with the permanent exhibition The Nassaus of Breda. a. Historical objects, artworks, and powerful stories offer a fresh perspective on the city’s past and the powerful Nassau family. Listen to the podcast Forward to the Past or follow the walking route Explore Royal Breda. More information: royalroots.nl and explorebreda.com.

©  Willem van oud naar jong. Collectie Museum Prinsenhof Delft
(fotografie door Tom Haartsen).
©  Moord, verzet, conflict. Collectie Museum Prinsenhof Delft.