Prinsenkasteel, Grimbergen, Belgium

Prinsenkasteel ('Prince Castle') was founded in the 14th century by the lords of Grimbergen. The present castle was built around 1500 on the foundations of the previous fortress. In 1686 the Count of Grimbergen, Philippe-François de Glymes, was given the title of Prince by Charles II of Spain. The castle then became a princely estate, hence its name. After being damaged during the War of the Austrian Succession, it was restored in 1745 and embellished in the 1770s.

From 1901 to 1933, Premonstratensians from the abbey of Sainte-Anne de Bonlieu-sur-Roubion, expelled from France following the expulsion of religious congregations, were welcomed in the castle.

The castle ruins were bought by the municipality of Grimbergen in 1947. In 1978, the municipality also acquired the annex building, now called the Guldendal, which was formerly used as a stable, a carriage house and service building.

References:

Wikipedia

Château de Foix

The Château de Foix dominates the town of Foix. An important tourist site, it is known as a centre of the Cathars. Built on an older 7th-century fortification, the castle is known from 987. In 1002, it was mentioned in the will of Roger I, Count of Carcassonne, who bequeathed the fortress to his youngest child, Bernard. In effect, the family ruling over the region were installed here which allowed them to control access to the upper Ariège valley and to keep surveillance from this strategic point over the lower land, protected behind impregnable walls.

In 1034, the castle became capital of the County of Foix and played a decisive role in medieval military history. During the two following centuries, the castle was home to Counts with shining personalities who became the soul of the Occitan resistance during the crusade against the Albigensians.

Jeroen van Dam (2 years ago)
Ruin of a castle, burned in WWII.

Bruno Carlot (4 years ago)
Quiet place

Jan Jasiewicz (4 years ago)
Castle ruins surrounded by small park. Quite nice place for afternoon walk.

Julie Clover (5 years ago)
What a great piece of history so close to Brussels. Great place to walk around but not very big.

Balazs Jarosi (5 years ago)
Nice castle with moat and a nice park. Recommended

Prinsenkasteel

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Château de Foix