The first castle on this site was built around 1280 by Count Floris V of Holland, to control the estuary of the river Vecht into the former Zuidersea. And undoubtedly it would also have been used to raise toll from passing ships on the river Vecht, as this river flowed through the territory of the bishops of Utrecht; opponents of Floris.
In 1296 Floris was abducted by rebelling noblemen and was held prisoner in Muiden Castle. They fled under the threat of a siege in the direction of Utrecht, taking Floris with them. During their flight they murdered Floris with their swords. Taking advantage of Floris death, there being no immediate successor and Floris' son being in England, Willem van Mechelen, bishop of Utrecht besieged Muiden Castle. After seizing the castle he destroyed it.
Read more: http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Europe/Netherlands/Provincie_Noord_Holland/Muiden-459047/Things_To_Do-Muiden-TG-C-1.html#tip=1848005#ixzz1O8Llngkt
