Zeist’s Timeless Charm: 1930 in Lush Color!

This enchanting colorized footage unveils the picturesque town of Zeist, Utrecht Province, Netherlands, in 1930—nearly a century ago—celebrating its nickname, "De Parel der Stichtsche Lustwarande," or "Pearl of the Stichtsche Lustwarande," a stunning chain of over 100 estates and country houses stretching along the southwestern edge of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug from De Bilt to Rhenen, via Doorn and Driebergen. Filmed in vibrant hues, the film captures Zeist’s charming streets, historic Slot Zeist palace, and surrounding estates like Wulperhorst, alongside the lush landscapes of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, featuring rolling hills, manicured gardens, and woodlands that drew tourists even before World War II. Notable estates include Beerschoten (De Bilt), Huis Doorn (Doorn), Hardenbroek (Driebergen), Moersbergen (Doorn), and De Reehorst (Driebergen), showcasing the region’s architectural grandeur and natural beauty. A dazzling window into 1930s Zeist’s rural elegance, this restored archive grips history buffs, nature lovers, and Dutch heritage enthusiasts, offering a vivid glimpse of "De Parel" frozen in time.