Located in the heart of Westerlo, Merode Castle is deeply connected to the history of the region. Although it only became the property of the Merode family in the 15th century, the estate has embodied their heritage for centuries. Today, Prince Simon de Mérode and his family live here.

PRESENTATION

The castle has been in the Merode family since 1478, when the Council of Brabant officially granted it to Jan IV de Merode. Its current appearance is largely the result of renovations carried out under Jan-Philippe-Eugène de Merode (1674-1732), a prominent figure of his time, Grandee of Spain, Knight of the Order of the Golden Fleece, and Field Marshal of the Austrian Imperial Army. He designed an extensive network of avenues and enhanced the castle, creating a truly majestic setting.

Located in Bruges, the Adornes Estate is a historical treasure founded in the 15th century by the Adorno family from Genoa. 

Today, it remains in the hands of Count and Countess Maximilien de Limburg Stirum, direct descendants of its founders.

PRESENTATION

This private estate consists of the Jerusalem Chapel, almshouses and a mansion with a vast adjacent garden. 

Consecrated in 1429, the chapel was inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem and is renowned for its distinctive architecture and unique decorations. 

Inside, visitors can admire remarkable paintings, sacred relics, and a crypt, as well as the impressive tomb of Anselm Adornes and his wife. 

An interactive museum, located within the former almshouses, vividly recounts the fascinating history of the Adornes family, with a special focus on Anselm Adornes—an influential merchant, diplomat, and knight. His travels, including a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, highlight his significant role in the commercial and political landscape of his time.

L’HÔTEL FALLIGAN

Located on the Kouter in the heart of Ghent, Hôtel Falligan is a masterpiece of Rococo architecture. Since 1802, it has been home to the Club Falligan, also known as the Royal Literary Society. True to its cultural and social mission, the club welcomes its members in an elegant and well-preserved setting.

PRESENTATION

Built in the 18th century, Hôtel Falligan has retained the grandeur and refinement of its time. The interconnected salons, tall windows flooding the rooms with light, ornate mirrors, crystal chandeliers, and paintings by van Reysschoot make it an exceptional venue. For over two centuries, it has been a prestigious meeting place for art and culture enthusiasts.

While the exterior façade reflects the Regence style with its understated elegance, the interior reveals a sophisticated Rococo design. Above the grand entrance in the inner courtyard, the family crest of Hector and Agnès Falligan remains proudly displayed, a reminder of their enduring legacy. 

House Beaucarne is a historic residence near Oudenaarde owned by the same family since 1748. Today, it remains in the hands of the Beaucarne and Fredericq descendants, who oversee guided tours and regularly host public events.

PRESENTATION

Founded in the 18th century, House Beaucarne has remained in the hands of the same family for 250 years. The house has preserved its original interiors, allowing visitors to step back into the 18th and 19th centuries. 

The Beaucarne and Fredericq families were passionate collectors of antiques and art, and the house displays period furniture from Saint-Sauveur Abbey in Ename. Other remarkable collections include antique dolls’ houses, miniatures, toy theatres, and religious artifacts.

The garden, designed in the 19th century, was once considered one of the finest in Flanders. It is now home to Belgium’s oldest surviving grape greenhouse.

One of Belgium’s best-preserved moated medieval castles, Laarne Castle has evolved into an elegant aristocratic summer residence. The Royal Association of Historic Houses and Gardens of Belgium owns the castle and is managed by the heritage organization Herita.

PRESENTATION

Dating back to the 13th century, Laarne Castle retains remarkable medieval features, including its round towers and square keep. In the 17th century, it was the site of infamous witch trials before being transformed into a noble retreat in 1673. Today, the castle boasts magnificent halls, such as the Knights’ Hall, refined salons, a former prison, and a 14th-century chapel adorned with exquisite frescoes. Its inner courtyard reflects the fusion of medieval and 17th-century architecture. The castle also houses an exceptional collection of 500 silver pieces, one of the finest in Belgium.

Nestled between the Flemish Ardennes and the Lys Valley, Lozer Castle is a historic gem. Owned by the della Faille d’Huysse family since 1654, it is now in the hands of the tenth generation.

PRESENTATION

Transformed in the 18th century in a neoclassical style, the castle is set within a stunning 13-hectare park, designed in the 1880s by renowned landscape architect Friedrich Eduard Keilig.

The estate features tranquil ponds, winding pathways, and charming outbuildings– including a garden pavilion and a farmhouse – while a double avenue from the castle walls leads to a church from the nineteenth century.

Nestled in a bend of the Lys River, just a few kilometers from Ghent, Ooidonk Castle is regarded as a gem of flamboyant Renaissance architecture. Surrounded by moats and lush gardens, it offers a haven of peace and serenity, despite its turbulent past.

PRESENTATION

In the 16th century, the castle belonged to Philip de Montmorency, Count of Horn, and an ally of William of Orange. After his execution in 1568, the castle suffered repeated destruction during the Wars of Religion. It was later rebuilt in Renaissance style by Maarten della Faille, a wealthy Antwerp merchant.

In 1864, Senator Henri t’Kint de Roodenbeke and his wife, Zoé de Naeyer purchased the estate. Today, 150 years later, their descendant, Count Henry t’Kint de Roodenbeke, still lives there.

Rozelaar Castle, dating back to the Middle Ages, is located in Lochristi. After several partial destructions, the original castle was replaced by a new building in the early 19th century. In the second half of the 19th century, the Vuylsteke family transformed the castle grounds into a horticultural centre.

PRESENTATION

Rozelaar Castle has medieval origins and was once part of the Saint Bavo’s Abbey estate in Ghent, serving as a residence for its abbots.

In the 18th century, Prince-Bishop Ferdinand von Lobkowicz created an extensive garden featuring a rare collection of exotic plants. He also added stables and two orangeries, which were later incorporated into the current building.

The castle, as it stands today, was commissioned by the De Cock family and designed in the early 19th century by Ghent architect Louis Minard in a Neoclassical style. Built on the foundations of the former moated castle, only two medieval towers remain, marking the entrance to the estate.

In the late 19th century, Charles Vuylsteke transformed the grounds into a renowned horticultural centre, introducing new ornamental plant varieties that gained international recognition.

Listed as a historical monument in 1995, the estate has recently undergone meticulous restoration under the supervision of architect Stéphane Boens.

Villa Madonna is an eclectic residence with Art Nouveau influences, built in 1906 on the Kruisberg hill in Ronse. Today, Joost and Caroline Van Goethem-Van den Bossche, who are passionately committed to preserving this exceptional heritage site, own it.

PRESENTATION

PRESENTATION Designed by architect M. De Noyette for Judge Edmond Matthys, the villa is set within a one-hectare landscaped park. The villa was designed to offer breathtaking views from every angle, thanks to its balconies, loggias, and observation towers.

Inside, the décor has remained intact, featuring wood paneling, marble fireplaces, a painted ceiling adorned with grape motifs, elegant parquet floors, and an exceptional tiled floor. 

The estate features remarkable outbuildings, including a restored 19th-century bread oven, an ice cellar from 1880 with its original vaults, and a recently restored orangery.

Architect Jean-Baptiste Dewin designed the Hôtel Riez, located in the Maritime District of Molenbeek-Saint-Jean, between 1927 and 1928 for industrialist Joachim Riez, a specialist in construction materials.

The de Molinari family, who have owned it for over fifty years, has carefully preserved this magnificent Art Deco townhouse.

PRESENTATION

A true gem of Art Deco architecture, the Hôtel Riez embodies luxury and refinement. Its façade, blending white stone with warm-toned brick, is adorned with intricate wrought-iron railings featuring geometric and spiral patterns. Bay windows, decorative balconies, and stepped gables give the building an elegant rhythm. The main entrance, positioned on a corner and behind a small garden, is enhanced with sculpted bird motifs and ornate ironwork, reinforcing the house’s prestigious character. 

Inside, the decor is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, reflecting the close collaboration between Dewin and Joseph De Coene of the renowned ‘Kortrijkse Kunstwerkstede Gebroeders De Coene‘ in Kortrijk. The entrance hall impresses with its grey marble paneling, while every detail highlights an exceptional level of artistry.

Elegant marble and wooden panels frame the main staircase, crafted from finely carved wood. A striking Art Deco stained-glass window depicting a stylised fountain bathes the stairwell in soft light.

Upstairs, the reception rooms, including the lounge and dining room rival one another in refinement. Small floral stained glass windows adorn the windows, while the original parquet floors have been preserved. The fully preserved period kitchen completes this remarkable setting.

Located on the edge of Cinquantenaire Park, House Cauchie is one of the most remarkable Art Nouveau houses in Brussels. Designed in 1905 by the artist couple Paul Cauchie (1875-1952) and Lina Cauchie, née Caroline Voet (1875-1969), the house served both as their home and a showcase for their work. 

Today, this listed building is owned by CDA and open to the public as part of Brussels’ museum network. 

PRESENTATION

Unlike many Brussels Art Nouveau façades, often inspired by nature, House Cauchie stands out for its striking geometric design. 

Its impressive façade, conceived as a giant advertisement, is richly decorated with sgraffito panels, demonstrating the expertise of the Ateliers Cauchie and attracting potential clients. The first floor served as a display space for interior decoration, with some original elements still visible today.

After the death of Paul and Lina Cauchie, the house was gradually abandoned and faced demolition. In 1979, Guy and Léona Dessicy saved it and undertook a meticulous restoration.

In 1979, Guy and Léona Dessicy saved it and undertook a meticulous restoration. 

The former basement workshop has been converted into a gallery showcasing the couple’s works and archives. Knowledgeable guides bring their story to life during visits.

Built in 1900, the Roosenboom House is a remarkable Art Nouveau masterpiece in Ixelles. Designed by architect Albert Roosenboom, it stands out with its elegant façade and a stunning sgraffito by Privat Livemont. Classified in December 1981, it suffered from neglect for a long time. Between November 2022 and May 2024, its owners, who have been living there since September 2024, finally restored it.

PRESENTATION

The Roosenboom House, sponsored by Bernard Louis François Beeckman, highlights a refined architectural style. The façade combines blue and white natural stone, delicate wrought ironwork, and an exceptional sgraffito by Privat Livemont. This artwork, depicting the silence of the night with childlike figures and poppy motifs, is one of Brussels’ finest sgraffiti.

On the first floor, a gracefully curved bow window, intricate wrought iron details, and stained-glass windows enhance the building’s aesthetic harmony.

The second floor, predominantly featuring white bricks, includes a beautifully designed iron balcony that follows the curve of the bow window. 

At the top level, the façade is crowned by Privat Livemont’s sgraffito, a true artistic highlight seamlessly integrated into the architecture.

The work aimed, among other things, at restoring its original layout on the façade, with its access to a "car reserve", a fact that was quite unique at the time.

The van Buuren Museum and Gardens, located in Brussels, is a magnificent Art Deco residence dating from 1928. Its perfectly preserved interior houses an exceptional collection of artworks from the 15th to the 20th century. 

Surrounding the villa, the beautifully landscaped gardens offer a unique journey through landscape design. 

The museum is administered by the Public-interest foundation The van Buuren Museum and Gardens, set up in 1970 by Alice van Buuren, and has been open to visitors since 1975.

PRESENTATION

Built by David and Alice van Buuren, this Art Deco villa reflects the influence of the Amsterdam School. Its refined interior, designed by Belgian, French, and Dutch decorators, showcases an exceptional mix of styles, with paintings, rare furniture, stained glass, and sculptures. Open to the public, this private museum is a true testament to the interwar period, embodying the van Buuren couple’s passion for art and culture. 

The listed, award-winning gardens extend over 1.2 hectares. Originally designed by Jules Buyssens, and later enriched by Alice van Buuren with the verdant visions of René Pechère. The six distinct spaces, from the Picturesque Garden to the Labyrinth and rose gardens… each bringing a unique touch to this magical place.

Nestled on the banks of the Eastern Dender and surrounded by a splendid landscaped park, ’Attre Castle is an exquisite 18th-century manor house. A fine example of neoclassical architecture, it is one of the rare Belgian châteaux to have preserved its original décor and furnishings. Recognised as a site of exceptional heritage in Wallonia, it remains the property of the de Meester de Heyndonck family.

PRESENTATION

Attre Castle, built in 1752 on the foundations of an older structure, was commissioned by Count François-Philippe Franeau d’Hyon, Count of Gommegnies. His son, François-Ferdinand, designed the interiors in the Louis XV style. As a chamberlain at the court of Archduchess Maria Theresa of Austria, he frequently hosted Archduchess Maria Christina of Austria and her husband, Count Albert of Saxony-Teschen, between 1782 and 1788.

In 1814, the château passed to the du Val de Beaulieu family and later, in 1910, to the de Meester de Heyndonck family. It is a remarkable example of neoclassical architecture, featuring a symmetrical and understated façade, a triangular pediment, and two lateral pavilions.

Its 17-hectare landscaped park includes several notable features, such as a 17th-century dovecote and an impressive artificial rock formation with a 33-meter-high tower and underground galleries.

Located along the road between Leuze and Tournai, the de la Catoire Castle is an elegant Neo-Classical and Palladian residence, built in the 19th century and surrounded by a vast landscaped park. Today, the château is undergoing an extensive restoration project, led by its current owners, Mr and Mrs De Graef, who committed to reviving this remarkable estate.

Today, the château is undergoing an extensive restoration project, led by its current owners, Mr and Mrs De Graef, who committed to reviving this remarkable estate.

PRESENTATION

The castle’s history dates back to the 17th century, when it belonged to the Haudion family. In 1751, Albert Hannecart, Knight and Lord of Wasmes-Briffoeil acquired it. However, the de Séjournet de Rameignies family, who designed it in a refined Neo-Classical and Palladian style, constructed the present building in the 19th century.

Beyond the main castle, the estate features several historic outbuildings, including a 17th-century icehouse, an orangery, a restored barn, a hunting lodge, and a caretaker’s house. A pillory from the same period serves as a reminder of the property’s judicial past.

In old French dictionaries, a “catoire” is a beehive made of woven straw. This reference can be seen on the estate’s outbuildings, where a coat of arms featuring a beehive is displayed.

Nestled in the rolling countryside of Hainaut, Louvignies Castle dates back to a medieval tower built in 1389. Over the centuries, it evolved and expanded before being acquired in 1716 by Don Rodrigues de Perralta, an ancestor of the de Moreau de Villegas de St-Pierre family, who still owns it today. 

PRESENTATION

Around 1870, Louvignies castle underwent a major transformation under Count Léon de Villegas de St-Pierre and his wife, Countess Ferdinande de Maillen. 

A fine example of 19th-century eclecticism, the castle has preserved its original furnishings. Visitors can step back in time and experience both aristocratic life—through monogrammed tableware, crystal glassware, ball gowns, and family albums—and the daily routines of the household staff. This Belgian château offers an atmosphere reminiscent of Downton Abbey.

The landscaped park, covering 14 hectares, was designed by Louis Fuchs in 1870 and is listed among ‘Wallonia’s remarkable gardens’. It is home to several remarkable trees, including a Virginia tulip tree dating from 1880. 

The grounds also features stables, a kennel, a vaulted icehouse, and an orangery set within a historic walled vegetable garden.  

Nestled within a vast 300-hectare estate near Sint-Truiden, Duras Castle stands out for its harmonious architecture and unspoiled natural surroundings. Owned by the de Liedekerke family for several generations, it is carefully maintained to preserve its exceptional heritage.

PRESENTATION

A grand plane tree-lined avenue leads to the Castle, surrounded by woodlands, meadows, fields, and a walled kitchen garden with a vineyard, an orchard, and an old watermill. Streams run through the estate, feeding the moats and the picturesque pond that encircles the château and its English-style landscaped park.

Originally built as a medieval fortress, Duras Castle has evolved over the centuries. It has withstood wars and historical upheavals, undergoing careful restorations each time. In more recent times, it was transformed into an elegant aristocratic residence, offering refined architecture and enhanced comfort.

Nestled in the rolling hills of Haspengouw, Hex Castle was built around 1770 as a summer retreat and hunting lodge for the Prince-Bishop of Liège.

Today, the estate remains in the hands of the d’Ursel family, who carefully preserve its heritage and charm.

PRESENTATION

Le Prince-Evêque de Liège, François-Charles von Velbrück, visionnaire et passionné d’art, de science et de nature, fit de son domaine un havre de sérénité et d’élégance.

François-Charles von Velbrück, the visionary Prince-Bishop of Liège, was a great patron of the arts, science, and nature. He transformed Heks into a haven of beauty and tranquility. The castle is surrounded by magnificent formal gardens featuring an exceptional rose collection, a unique organic vegetable garden with rare heirloom varieties, and a romantic English-style park with breathtaking vistas and ancient trees. 

The famous rose collection, home to several rare varieties, makes Hex a must-visit destination for garden and botany enthusiasts.

Listed as a historic monument and part of the Natura 2000 network, the estate is a sanctuary of biodiversity.

Located in Sint-Truiden, Nagels House is a magnificent bourgeois residence built during the Belle Époque by notary Louis Nagels and his wife, Emma Debruyn.

With its eclectic façade and interior, it stands as a remarkable testament to late 19th-century architecture and style.

Today, it is a private property and home to Emporium-Interiors, a prestigious interior design boutique.

PRESENTATION

Designed in 1892 by architect Edmond Serrure Jr., Nagels House perfectly captures the refined spirit of the Belle Époque. Visitors are greeted by an impressive Renaissance-style entrance hall, featuring a grand ceremonial staircase.

On the first floor, beautifully decorated rooms display a variety of styles, including Néo-Gothic, Louis XV, and Egyptian. A highlight of the visit is the Egyptian ‘Music Salon’, a rare example in Flanders of the late 19th-century fascination with ancient Egypt. 

Another treasure is the stained-glass window depicting Sarah Bernhardt, created in 1893 after a painting by her close friend, the French artist Georges Clairin.

Perched on a rocky outcrop in the heart of the High Fens, Reinhardstein Castle proudly overlooks the Warche River. It is the only Eifel style castle in Belgium and the highest in the country.

The castle is owned by the non-profit organisation Reinhardstein, which is dedicated to preserving, enhancing, and bringing this historic site to life.

PRESENTATION

In 1354, Wenceslas of Luxembourg granted Renaud de Waimes permission to build a castle on this site. Over the centuries, it changed hands between several noble families, including Zivelle, Schwarzenberg, Brandscheid, Spontin, and Nassau.

In 1550, following the marriage of Anne of Nassau and Wilhelm von Metternich, the castle became part of this influential Rhineland dynasty, which retained it until the French Revolution. Left abandoned for over 150 years, it fell into ruin until 1965, when historian Jean Overloop took on the challenge of restoring it. With the help of local craftsmen and a group of friends, he meticulously rebuilt the castle over eighteen months, establishing a non-profit organisation to support its revival.

Niché dans un cadre naturel d’exception, le château de Waleffe, érigé en 1706, est l’extension d’une ferme fortifiée datant du XVIè siècle. Classée au patrimoine exceptionnel de Wallonie, il appartient depuis 1580 à la famille des barons de Potesta de Waleffe, descendants directs du Grand Curtius, célèbre industriel et grand mécène de la ville de Liège. 

PRESENTATION

Le château de Waleffe incarne l’élégance du style classique du XVIIIe siècle. Son intérieur somptueusement décoré mélange les influences Louis XIV et Louis XV, offrant un cadre raffiné avec meubles d’époque, tapisseries et œuvres d’art. Inspiré par l’architecte Daniel Marot, le château marie simplicité et sophistication. Ce lieu a joué un rôle stratégique durant la Seconde Guerre mondiale en servant de refuge pour des membres de l’Armée secrète. 

Le parc, avec son allée de tilleuls et sa charmille bicentenaire, fut réaménagé au XIXe siècle. Des sculptures en terre cuite ornent la cour d’honneur, tandis qu’un jardin en broderie témoigne du raffinement paysager d’autrefois. Un espace dédié à l’herboristerie propose des ateliers sur les plantes médicinales et la phytothérapie.

Located in Saint-Georges-sur-Meuse, Warfusée Castle is a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture. Still home to the Counts of Oultremont, it embodies the elegance of the Louis XV era and is recognised as an exceptional heritage site of Wallonia. 

PRESENTATION 

Originally, a medieval seigneury, Warfusée belonged successively to the de Dommartin, Hamal, and Renesse families. At the time, it featured a Renaissance-style keep and main residence. In 1609, the Holy Roman Emperor elevated it to a county. 

. In 1707, Marie-Isabelle of Bavaria-Schagen brought the estate into the Oultremont family through her marriage to François d’Oultremont. The present castle was built in 1754 by Florent d’Oultremont, brother of Prince-Bishop Charles-Nicolas d’Oultremont. Its harmonious neoclassical architecture, the grand avenue leading to the 1622 gatehouse, and perfectly symmetrical outbuildings make it a remarkable sight. Perched 130 meters above the Meuse, its landscaped park, complete with a pond, offers breathtaking views. 

Inside, the castle displays 18th-century refinement, with exquisite marble, wood paneling, stucco, and wrought iron. The private apartments of the Prince-Bishop feature a four-poster bed, Oudenaarde tapestries depicting Don Quixote, and portraits of Louis XV and Louis XVI.

Lassus Castle, set in the picturesque village of Hamoir along the Ourthe River, is a historic residence full of character. 

To breathe new life into the estate, the current owners, Sabine and Jean-François Rancelot, have transformed part of the castle into charming holiday rentals. 

PRESENTATION

Built in three different periods, the 13th, 18th and 19th centuries, this castle is an interesting architectural ensemble. The building, surrounded by gardens and a landscaped park, is set in an exceptional green setting, the Ourthe valley immortalised by the great painter Richard Heinz, the “Master of Sy”.

Once on the brink of ruin, La Blanche Maison has been lovingly restored by its owner, Gilles Pirlot de Corbion. Today, it stands as a beautiful testament to the past. Each room has been carefully furnished and decorated with period objects, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience rural traditions firsthand.

PRESENTATION

Built in 1767, La Blanche Maison falls under the category of “independent and refined farmhouses,” where the living quarters are separated from the agricultural buildings.

Its layout follows a balanced “double-depth” plan, with a central hallway dividing the space. To the left are the kitchen and the “room behind the hearth,” where daily life took place. To the right, the more elegant “best room” was used for hosting guests and showing the family’s social status. 

The furnishings reflect the 18th-century pursuit of comfort and refinement. Contrary to popular belief, Ardennes furniture was not always rustic. Many of the pieces in this house are finely carved, demonstrating the skill of local artisans. Remarkably, the names of many of the cabinetmakers responsible for these works are known.

Located in Gembloux, Corroy Castle is a striking 13th-century medieval fortress built by the souvereign count Philip of Vianden. Recognised as an exceptional heritage site of Wallonia, it is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. 

Owned by the de Trazegnies family since the 19th century, it is now managed by Marquis Olivier de Trazegnies on behalf of the Royal Association of Historic Residences and Gardens of Belgium.

PRESENTATION

Built to defend the southern border of the Duchy of Brabant, this moated castle stands out with its imposing towers and fortified entrance. Inspired by the Philipian design of the Louvre, the castle belonged to several prominent families before being passed down through inheritance to the Trazegnies family.

Over the centuries, the castle evolved to meet military advancements, including the addition of gunports. In the 18th century, extensive renovations improved its living spaces, creating grand apartments and prestigious salons. In the 19th century, the dining hall was adorned with marble and paintings by Jean Robie, while the chapel and vestibule were redesigned in a neo-Gothic style. The first salon featured magnificent paintings from the 1770s, originally coming from the former Villegas hotel in Brussels.

Nestled along the Meuse River near Dinant, Freÿr Castle was originally a fortress before evolving into a magnificent Renaissance residence. 

Passed down through the Spontin, Laubespin, and Bonaert families, the estate is now managed by the Domaine de Freÿr non-profit organisation.

PRESENTATION

Originally built in the 14th century by Jean d’Orjo, Freÿr Castle was destroyed in 1554 and rebuilt in 1571 by Guillaume de Beaufort-Spontin. 

In the 17th century, Hubert de Spontin transformed it into a Renaissance-style country residence and designed its gardens, which were later redesigned in the French style in the 18th century. 

In 1675, it hosted negotiations between Louis XIV and Charles II of Spain, leading to a trade agreement restoring commerce along the Meuse. 

After turbulent post-revolutionary times, the castle flourished once more before being requisitioned as a German military hospital in 1914. 

Restored after the war, it was opened to the public in the late 1940s. Its stunning gardens, with terraces, fountains, and centuries-old orange trees, offer breathtaking views of the Meuse.

Built in 1758, Annevoie Castle is nestled between Namur and Dinant and is renowned for its breathtaking water gardens. Since 2017, the estate has been managed by a private foundation established by Ernest-Tom LOUMAYE and his wife, to restore and preserve this exceptional architectural and landscape heritage. 

PRESENTATION

Annevoie Estate was founded in 1758, thriving on the prosperity brought by the iron industry. His travels inspired Charles-Alexis de MONTPELLIER to design gardens seamlessly blending French, Italian, and English styles. Spanning around twelve hectares, the gardens feature a remarkable network of ponds, canals, and over fifty fountains and waterfalls, all functioning naturally without machinery. The historic vegetable garden has also been beautifully restored.

As one of the best-preserved water gardens in Europe, Annevoie holds prestigious titles such as “Historic Monument,” “Exceptional Heritage of Wallonia,” and “Remarkable Gardens.” It has also been awarded two stars in the Michelin Guide.

Perched on a hill overlooking the Lasne Valley, Rixensart Castle is a magnificent architectural gem, recognised as an exceptional heritage site in Wallonia. The Merode family has owned it since 1715. Created in 2018, the Merode-Rixensart Foundation is dedicated to preserving this rich heritage.

PRESENTATION

First mentioned in 1217, the Rixensart estate originally belonged to the de Limal family. In the 16th century, it passed to the Croÿ family and, in 1586, to Jean-Charles de Gavre, Count of Frésin, who expanded the medieval fortress. At the end of the 17th century, the château was partially destroyed by the troops of Louis XIV. It was rebuilt and enhanced by General Philippe-Hippolyte Spinola, serving the King of Spain, who gave it its current appearance.

Since 1715, the estate has remained in the hands of the Merode family, who continue its preservation today.

Built around an elegant inner courtyard, the château blends Renaissance and Baroque styles with Genoa, Spain, and Brabant influences. The Sainte-Croix Church, built on its foundations, replaced the medieval tower, destroyed in the fire. Once a private chapel, it became a parish church in 1802.

Entouré de douves, le Château Ten Berghe, est situé à 3km du centre historique de Bruges. Le domaine composé du château néogothique et de ses dépendances se trouve dans un parc paysager de style anglais entouré partiellement d’une double douve. Le château, géré par d’Amaury van der Beken Pasteel, est entre les mains de la même famille depuis 1487, traversant 18 générations. 

PRESENTATION 

Mentionné pour la première fois en 1267 comme une seigneurie et un fief du Comte de Flandre, le château a connu de nombreux propriétaires au fil des siècles. Le 7 octobre 1490, le château a été capturé et brûlé par les forces agissant au nom d'Engelbert II de Nassau lors de la révolte flamande contre Maximilien.

Reconstruit et embelli, il a subi une transformation majeure en 1877 sous la direction de l’architecte Joseph Schadde, adoptant son élégante allure néo-gothique actuelle. De nombreuses dépendances du château, dont les écuries et la remise, ont été démolies et reconstruites. 

Des travaux gigantesques ont en effet été effectués dans le domaine, avec le comblement d'une partie des douves et la création d'un jardin d'agrément comprenant une glacière et une gloriette pittoresque.

Nestled in a peaceful, green part of Bruges, the English Convent is a remarkable religious site. Owned by the Canonesses of Saint Augustine, it reflects nearly 400 years of history and spiritual tradition, offering a unique glimpse into Bruges’ religious heritage.

PRESENTATION

Founded in 1629 by English nuns fleeing persecution under Henry VIII, the convent first settled in a modest pilgrim’s house. From 1650 onwards, it underwent significant transformations, including the construction of a Baroque-style church. Completed in 1738 under the direction of architect Hendrik Pullinx, its grey slate dome remains unique in Bruges.

The community’s primary mission was the education of young girls, with a boarding school operating until 1973. 

Now a listed historical monument, the church’s interior features stunning marble floors with star-shaped patterns and a richly decorated altar.

The convent preserves valuable cultural treasures, including rare manuscripts by Guido Gezelle, Albrecht Rodenbach, and Hugo Verriest, as well as a rare portrait with a relic of Sir Thomas More.

Nestled in the heart of Bruges, Hof Bladelin is a magnificent medieval city palace with a rich history shaped by art, faith, and trade. 

Since 1964, it has been under the care of the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows, Ruiselede, who are dedicated to preserving this remarkable heritage.

PRESENTATION

Stepping into the enclosed garden of Hof Bladelin is like travelling back to the Burgundian era of Bruges. Originally built for Pierre Bladelin, Treasurer of the Order of the Golden Fleece, the residence was later expanded by Piero de Medici, a member of the renowned Florentine banking dynasty, and further extended in the 16th century by the influential Egmont family. 

Over the centuries, Hof Bladelin served as an aristocratic residence and, between 1632 and 1669, housed a Carmelite convent. 

Around 1830, Abbot Léon de Foere established a religious institute for the poor, founded a lace school, and commissioned a neoclassical chapel. He also adorned the audience hall with monumental frescoes—faithful reproductions of Raphael’s Vatican murals. 

Loppem Castle, near Bruges, is a stunning neo-Gothic masterpiece from the mid-19th century. Set within a vast park with ancient trees, ponds, and a labyrinth, it offers a unique historical and architectural experience.

In 1951, Baron Jean van Caloen established a foundation to preserve the castle, its furnishings, park, and outbuildings while promoting its rich art collections.

PRESENTATION

Designed as a complete work of art, the castle seamlessly blends exterior and interior elements. The English architect Edward Welby Pugin created the furniture, while Jean-Baptiste Bethune designed the interiors. Skilled local craftsmen crafted the stained glass, chandeliers, staircases, and fireplaces.

The ground floor features elegant reception rooms that reflect 19th-century grandeur, while the upper floor houses the family chapel and royal chambers. These rooms recall the castle’s prestigious past, including the stay of King Albert I and Queen Elisabeth in 1918, shortly after the First World War. The ground floor features elegant reception rooms that reflect 19th-century grandeur, while the upper floor houses the family chapel and royal chambers. 

The castle displays medieval, Asian, and African art collections assembled by Jean and Roland van Caloen.

These rooms recall the castle’s prestigious past, including the stay of King Albert I and Queen Elisabeth in 1918, shortly after the First World War. 

Located in Bruges, the House of the Visitation dates partly from the 13th century, with renovations carried out in the 17th and early 20th centuries. Today, this residence belongs to Chevalier Baudouin de la Kethulle de Ryhove 

PRESENTATION

The history of the House of the Visitation dates back to the 13th century when it was the residence of Jan Breydel. Over the centuries, it was home to influential Bruges patrician families, including the van Steelant family and members of the Order of the Golden Fleece, such as Jan van Auxy and his son-in-law Jan van Gruuthuse.

Originally consisting of two separate houses, it was merged into a single property in 1776. At the beginning of the 20th century, industrialist Jean de Brouwer transformed the interior in a Neo-Renaissance style, commissioning Émile Rommelaere to create unique frescoes, the only ones of their kind in Bruges. 

In 1903, the house was acquired by Baron Charles Gillès de Pélichy, who redesigned several rooms, including his study and library, in the Neo-Gothic style.

Wynendaele Castle, located in Torhout, is a historic residence with a rich past. Originally a medieval fortress, it was largely restored to its former splendour in the 19th century. With over 1,000 years of history, this architectural gem remains the property of the Matthieu de Wynendaele family, preserving its heritage and timeless character. 

PRESENTATION 

First mentioned in 1127, the castle is believed to have been built by Robert I of Flanders as a residence for the Counts of Flanders. During the 13th century, under Guy of Dampierre, it played an important diplomatic role, hosting negotiations and alliances. 

In the 15th century, the castle was taken over by John the Fearless, Duke of Burgundy, and later inhabited by the House of Cleves, Lords of Ravenstein. In 1482, tragedy struck in the surrounding forest when Duchess Mary of Burgundy suffered a fatal accident during a hunting expedition. Over the centuries, the castle endured many hardships. In 1795, it was ransacked by French troops, leaving it in ruins. 

During the 19th century, the castle underwent significant restoration under the guidance of Brussels banker Josse Pierre Matthieu. He preserved several original features, including parts of the north wing dating back to 1302. 

In 1940, the castle once again became the setting for a historic event: the fateful meeting between King Leopold III and his ministers at the onset of the Second World War.