Special tour: The Last Empress
Who was Auguste Victoria, the last German empress? Discover more about her eventful life. After Germany lost the First World War in 1918, Wilhelm II fled to the Netherlands and was dethroned. Together with his wife, he purchased the country estate Huis Doorn. Although Auguste Victoria passed away in 1921, many traces of her presence, character and convictions can still be found at Huis Doorn.
Inspiration and Image
Auguste Victoria’s life was marked by dedication, a strong sense of responsibility and care for others. At the imperial court she built her own network and devoted herself wholeheartedly to babies, children and young mothers, inspired by her Christian faith and in close connection with the Evangelical Lutheran Church. During the First World War she organized the reception and care of wounded soldiers in imperial buildings. Among the people, her image as “mother of the nation” steadily grew. In the dining room of Huis Doorn hangs an impressive portrait of her: dignified and regal, yet with a gentle, human undertone.
Traces of an Eventful Life
After 1918, her health deteriorated rapidly. At Huis Doorn, her apartment was specially adapted, including the addition of a balcony and a lift. During this special tour, you will follow Auguste Victoria in the final phase of her life and explore her private apartments, including her sitting room and bath and dressing room. Immerse yourself in her life story and admire the well-known portrait by Philip de László, as well as correspondence and photographs, her personal songbook, sedan chair and other belongings that reflect her life.
Daily from 3 March, Tuesday through Sunday at 12:00 noon. Book your tickets now!
Practical Information
- Daily from 3 March
- Tuesday through Sunday at 12:00 noon.
- The tour is conducted in Dutch; an English-language handout is available for English speaking visitors.
- Ticket price: €15