Unlike other parks in Amsterdam that have been created for the public good by the city or philanthropists, Frankendael Park is the only one that is actually a former country estate dating back to the 17th-century. In fact, the original residence is still located in the park near the Middenweg, but it now serves as an exhibition hall and a venue for various cultural events. All other such summer residences built by wealthy Amsterdammers have been lost to time and so-called progress. Outside you’ll find plenty of green space and water, not to mention two of the area’s best restaurants. De Kas is located in a converted greenhouse surrounded by a manicured garden, while Merkelbach is housed in the coach house of the main building.