Alden-Biesen Castle - an extraordinary example of the power of the Teutonic Order
This impressive castle belonged to the Teutonic Order for centuries, proving its power and importance in Europe at that time. Everything changed at the end of the 18th century, during the French Revolution, when the order lost its property and Alden-Biesen passed into private hands.
As a result of a great fire in 1971, the castle was almost completely destroyed. Only the walls remained. The intervention of the Flemish government led to a thorough renovation, thanks to which Alden-Biesen has once again become a remarkable attraction in the region.
Today, visitors can admire the castle, which houses a museum, a chapel and extensive gardens.
As a result of a great fire in 1971, the castle was almost completely destroyed. Only the walls remained. The intervention of the Flemish government led to a thorough renovation, thanks to which Alden-Biesen has once again become a remarkable attraction in the region.
Today, visitors can admire the castle, which houses a museum, a chapel and extensive gardens.
The history of Alden-Biesen Castle
For centuries, the stronghold was the seat of the Teutonic Order. It was from here that its members managed dozens of estates in the region.
The origins of the order can be traced back to the 12th century in Acre. It was created to protect Christians and care for the sick. Over time, he gained powerful protectors and amassed a huge fortune.
The impressive residence in Alden-Biesen was built over a period of approximately two hundred years, from the 16th to the 18th century. It is known, however, that the Teutonic Order appeared in these lands much earlier. Participation in the Crusades contributed to the growth of his importance and popularity.
The buildings preserved to this day, mainly in the Renaissance style, date mostly from the 16th and 17th centuries. Grouped around three courtyards, they create a harmonious whole. Alden-Biesen, with its impressive castle surrounded by a moat, is one of the most majestic residences in the region.
The origins of the order can be traced back to the 12th century in Acre. It was created to protect Christians and care for the sick. Over time, he gained powerful protectors and amassed a huge fortune.
The impressive residence in Alden-Biesen was built over a period of approximately two hundred years, from the 16th to the 18th century. It is known, however, that the Teutonic Order appeared in these lands much earlier. Participation in the Crusades contributed to the growth of his importance and popularity.
The buildings preserved to this day, mainly in the Renaissance style, date mostly from the 16th and 17th centuries. Grouped around three courtyards, they create a harmonious whole. Alden-Biesen, with its impressive castle surrounded by a moat, is one of the most majestic residences in the region.
Opening hours and ticket prices
Castle grounds and park
The Alden Biesen castle complex is open to visitors 365 days a year. The gates leading to the castle grounds and English Park are open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. During the winter months, the park closes half an hour before sunset. Visiting the outer castle grounds and park is free.
DOMUS Museum – opening hours
The Alden Biesen castle complex is open to visitors 365 days a year. The gates leading to the castle grounds and English Park are open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. During the winter months, the park closes half an hour before sunset. Visiting the outer castle grounds and park is free.
DOMUS Museum – opening hours
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July 1 – September 13, 2026
Monday: 12:00–17:00 Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00–17:00 |
September 14 – October 14, 2026
The museum is closed . |
October 15, 2026 – March 7, 2027
Monday: closed Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00–17:00 |
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Ticket price :
8 euros |
The French Gardens are part of the paid tour and are accessible after purchasing a museum ticket. On days when the museum is closed, the gardens can be visited. free .
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Adres:
Kasteelstraat 6, 3740 Bilzen-Hoeselt |