The story behind the name…

Erudite, progressive, unconventional, cosmopolitan and successful.

An apt description of Belle van Zuylen as a person and a writer. And this is exactly how we envisage the new Belle van Zuylen building in Utrecht. Not just a striking landmark for the city of Utrecht, but also a symbol and international attraction. The Belle van Zuylen development is a concrete expression of how we see innovation, organisation, urban life and society. And it is a project that we aim to complete with audacity and vigour.

Isabella Agneta Elisabeth van Tuyll van Serooskerken was born on 20 October 1740 as the daughter of Diederik Jacob van Tuyll van Serooskerken and Helena Jacoba de Vicq. She grew up in Slot Zuylen close to Utrecht and her lively intelligence, great intellectual curiosity, non-conformist ideas and talent for writing were apparent from a very early age. She made her name as a writer, publishing her work under the names of Isabella de Charrière abroad and Belle van Zuylen in the Netherlands. She wrote novels, plays, operas (both librettos and music) and many letters that were addressed to friends, family and her great love, Constant d'Hermensches.

"I have no talent for submissiveness"

From a letter by Isabelle De Charriere (Belle Van Zuylen) to James Bosswell.

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