Rubenshuis (Rubens House)

Rubens lived here for 29 years from 1611. The painter's house was later owned by the Duke of Newcastle and was bought by the City in 1937. The house and garden were restored using engravings made between 1684 and 1692 (see Gothein's illustrations and comment). It is an enclosed renaissance garden, typical of its time, with straight walks and parterres bounded by yew hedges. Because it belonged to a famous artist, more is known of this garden than of its contemporaries. It is fascinating.