Location: Koningin Astridplein 17, Bazel, East Flanders Map
Constructed: 15th century
Open: May- June, Sept- Oct
Thurs:
10am- 4:30pm
Sun: 2- 5pm
July- Aug
Tue- Thur: 10am- 4:30 pm
Sun: 2- 5pm
Tel. +32 3 740 0400
Wissekerke Castle (Dutch: Kasteel Wissekerke) is a historic water castle located in the village of Bazel, within the municipality of Kruibeke in East Flanders, Belgium (coordinates: 51°08′42″N 4°18′04″E). Situated on a site with fortifications dating back to the 10th century, the current structure primarily reflects 15th-century construction with extensive 19th-century neo-Gothic renovations, transforming it from a defensive stronghold into a luxurious residence. Surrounded by a moat, an expansive English-style park exceeding 33 hectares, and featuring one of Europe's oldest wrought iron suspension bridges (built in 1824), the castle exemplifies the evolution of Belgian aristocratic architecture. Once the seat of influential families like the Vilain XIIII, who served as local mayors for 139 years, it now functions as a cultural heritage site, museum, and venue for events, offering visitors insights into medieval history, 19th-century opulence, and industrial archaeology.
The origins of Wissekerke Castle trace back to the 10th century, when
an earthen motte-and-bailey fortification may have been erected on the
site to defend against Viking incursions along the Scheldt River. By the
13th century, a more substantial stone castle began to take shape,
likely including a fortified tower whose base remains visible in the
cellars today. In 1510, the castle was purchased by Lieven van
Pottelsberghe, Lord of Vinderhoute and a councilor to Holy Roman Emperor
Charles V, marking the start of its association with prominent nobility.
Upon his death in 1531, it passed through inheritance to Servaas van
Steelant, who undertook major reconstructions after the castle was
partially destroyed by fire in 1583 during conflicts involving Marnix de
Sainte Aldegonde. This 16th-century rebuild shifted the focus from
defense to residential comfort, resulting in the loss of many fortified
elements.
The castle entered its most transformative era in the 19th
century under the Vilain XIIII family, who acquired it in 1780 through
inheritance by the young Louis Philippe Vilain XIIII, great-grandson of
the previous owner, Anna Francisca de la Kethulle. Count Philippe Vilain
XIIII (1778–1856) and his wife, Countess Zoé de Feltz (1780–1853),
converted the medieval structure into a fashionable neo-Gothic
residence, drawing inspiration from Windsor Castle in England. Key
developments included digging the park pond in 1803, constructing a new
entrance designed by Antwerp architect François Verly, and adding the
iconic suspension bridge in 1824 by Brussels engineer Jean-Baptiste
Vifquain. Viscount Jean Jacques Philippe Vilain XIIII, a respected
Flemish politician, oversaw further enhancements. The Vilain XIIII
family resided there until the mid-20th century, holding the mayoralty
of Bazel for 139 years.
In 1981, the castle, its gatehouse,
suspension bridge, and pigeon tower were designated protected historic
monuments. By 1989, the last ancestral occupant, Jean Vilain XIIII, sold
the property to the municipality of Kruibeke, which initiated
restoration efforts to preserve and repurpose the site. Since then,
ongoing beautification works, including bridge restorations, have
maintained its historical integrity.
Wissekerke Castle's architecture blends medieval foundations with
19th-century neo-Gothic grandeur, creating a picturesque water castle
encircled by a moat. The core structure dates to the 15th century, but
most visible elements stem from the 19th-century renovations led by
architects like François Verly, who redesigned the entrance and overall
layout in 1803–1811, incorporating elements reminiscent of English
Gothic styles. The facade features pointed arches, ornate detailing, and
a gate building added during the Vilain XIIII era. A prominent tower
allows access to upper levels, and the cellars preserve remnants of the
13th-century motte tower.
The surrounding landscape enhances the
architecture: a large pond was excavated in 1803, and the 33-hectare
English park, once among Belgium's finest, included various picturesque
structures (many now lost). The standout feature is the 23-meter wrought
iron suspension footbridge, built in 1824 and recognized as the oldest
surviving chain footbridge in Europe, highlighting early industrial
engineering with its chain-link design and structural innovations.
Additional outbuildings include a pigeon tower and gatehouse, all
protected since 1981.
The interiors of Wissekerke Castle predominantly date from the 19th
century, reflecting neo-Gothic aesthetics with ornate woodwork,
furnishings, and decorative elements installed during the Vilain XIIII
renovations. Visitors can explore multi-tiered cellars that store
historical artifacts and reveal the medieval foundations, including the
base of the original 13th-century tower. The main rooms feature
period-appropriate decor, such as elaborate ceilings and furniture,
evoking the lifestyle of 19th-century aristocracy. Notable features
include the accessible tower, offering panoramic views of the park and
Scheldt River valley, and exhibitions on the castle's history and the
Vilain XIIII family.
The suspension bridge stands out as an
industrial relic, with its wrought iron chains and footpath design
representing early 19th-century engineering prowess. The park itself is
a highlight, with walking paths, the moat, and remnants of romantic
landscaping. While no specific legends are prominently associated, the
castle's Viking-era origins and repeated destructions add a layer of
historical intrigue.
Since its acquisition by the Kruibeke municipality in 1989,
Wissekerke Castle has been repurposed as a cultural center, hosting
exhibitions, meetings, seminars, and events. It operates as a museum,
with restored interiors showcasing historical artifacts and family
history. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset and free to
visitors, ideal for walks and picnics.
As of 2025, the castle is
typically open to the public on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1:00 PM to
5:00 PM, with possible extensions during weekends, holidays, or special
events; however, interior access may be limited or require appointments
due to ongoing restorations. Admission is a small fee (around €5–€10,
subject to change), granting access to the entire site, including the
tower and cellars. Guided tours are available, often in Dutch, French,
or English, and provide in-depth historical context; advance booking is
recommended via the Kruibeke municipality website or tourism office. The
site is family-friendly, with information panels and occasional themed
events, though some areas may not be fully accessible for those with
mobility issues. For the latest 2025 schedules and tickets, visitors
should check official sources like the Kruibeke tourism page or
Tripadvisor, as hours may vary seasonally or due to events.