Top 20 Castles around Zemst

If a castle can be a real castle...

Another castle that can be called a castle...

Once a sturdy motte castle from the 11th century, Het Steen grew into a beautiful Renaissance castle that played a key role in the defense of Brabant against the Mechelaars for centuries. The castle is picturesquely situated in a meander of the Barebeek, surrounded by old moats and close to the Zenne, and breathes history - from knightly battles to Spanish garrisons. The most famous resident was Peter Paul Rubens, who spent his last summers here, painted, partied with artist friends such as Van Dyck and Teniers, and immortalized the surrounding nature on canvas.

Het Steen and appurtenances (Steendreef 77): protected monument (28/10/1948) in Flemish Renaissance style. Only the facades and roofs of the main building and outbuildings, with the exception of the stables and sheds from the first half of the 19th century, are protected. On the left in front of 't Steen, popularly known as 'Het Rubenskasteel', our attention goes to the second frame. Here we are looking in the direction of Perk where Rubens' friend David Teniers lived. Is that how Rubens saw it in his time? The castle grew out of a motte, a heavy stone residential tower on a hill, surrounded by water. The oldest known owner of the first castle was probably Rudolf van Wilre, who had the Steenvaart or the connection between the Barebeek and the Zenne dug in 1259. Later this was filled in and is now the toevaartdreef. In a deed from 1304 there was mention of a castle in white stone. It was a feudal castle, with towers and moats, like most castles from that time, comparable to the Steen in Antwerp or the Kantersteen in Brussels. As an advanced defense position it played its role for centuries in the wars between the people of Mechelen and Brussels.

Kasteeldomein Zellaer is a beautiful historic castle located in Bonheiden, a municipality in the province of Antwerp, Belgium. The castle and the surrounding domain are popular attractions due to their rich history, architecture and the natural beauty of the surroundings. History The current castle of Zellaer largely dates from the 19th century, but the origins of the domain go back much further. It is believed that a fortified castle already existed in the Middle Ages. In the 13th century, the domain was owned by the Van Duffel family. Later, it came into the possession of the noble Berthout family. In the 18th century, the old castle was destroyed, after which it was completely rebuilt in the neo-Gothic style in the 19th century by the famous architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaar. Cluysenaar was responsible for the design of several iconic buildings in Belgium, such as the Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert in Brussels. The castle as we know it today, with its towers, battlements and romantic appearance, dates from this period. Architecture The castle of Zellaer is a beautiful example of the neo-Gothic architectural style, which was very popular in the 19th century. The building has a fairytale appearance with towers, battlements, a moat and a drawbridge. The neo-Gothic style is known for the revival of medieval architectural elements, such as pointed arches and decorative details. The interior of the castle also contains Gothic and neo-Gothic elements. Some rooms are beautifully decorated with woodwork, stained glass windows and old furniture, which provide a glimpse into the rich past of the residents. The Domain The castle domain includes an extensive park with forests, ponds and walking paths. The park is freely accessible and is often used by hikers and nature lovers. It is a green oasis in the region and offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the nature and landscape around the castle. Current Use Zellaer Castle is owned by the municipality of Bonheiden and is managed by Kempens Landschap, an organisation that is committed to the preservation of heritage and nature. The castle is used for various events, such as weddings, photo shoots, exhibitions and cultural activities. There are also regular guided tours that give visitors the opportunity to learn more about the history and architecture of the building. Visits Visitors can enter the park freely, but access to the castle itself is often limited to special occasions or guided tours. During these tours, you will get a glimpse into the various rooms and will be told about the rich history of the domain and its former residents. Summary Zellaer Castle is an impressive piece of heritage in Flanders, with a rich history and beautiful architecture. It offers both cultural and recreational value to the region and is worth a visit for anyone interested in history, architecture or just wants to take a nice walk in a historic environment.

This castle has been a ruin since the end of WWII. Work is now being done to prevent it from collapsing further.

The restoration of the castle ruins has started.

More information about the fort can be found at: https://www.fortliezele.be