Naarden was granted its city rights in 1300 (the only town in Het Gooi with these rights) and later developed into a fortified garrison town with a textile industry.
Naarden is an example of a star fort, complete with fortified walls and a moat. The moat and walls have been restored.[when?]
John Amos Comenius, 17th century Moravian born Czech educator was buried in the city, and his mausoleum is open for visitors.
Despite its earlier importance, Naarden's population was surpassed by Hilversum in the 18th century and today it is smaller than its neighbour Bussum.
Aerial photograph of Naarden, inter-war period
The city's distinctive shape made it a rallying point for Allied bombers returning to England after raids on Germany[4].
Naarden was a separate municipality until 2015. On 1 January 2016, the municipality of #Naarden merged with Muiden and Bussum to form the new municipality of Gooise Meren. Source: Wikipedia