Beersel Castle
The moated Beersel Castle is one of the few well-preserved examples of medieval fortifications in Belgium. Built between 1300 and 1310 by Godfrey of Hellebeke, it was intended to be the first line of defense of Brussels. Alongside Gaasbeek Castle, it became one of several Brabant fortifications in the area. During the War of the Brabant Succession in 1356-1357, the stronghold, besieged by soldiers of the County of Flanders, led by Louis Malé, was captured and completely plundered.
During the rebellion against Maximilian I, Beersel sided with the Emperor, which caused a conflict with Brussels. The castle was besieged twice by Brussels troops in 1488 and 1489. During the second siege, when the attackers used cannons provided by Louis XI, the fortress fell after a few days, suffering significant damage, especially on the southern side.
During the rebellion against Maximilian I, Beersel sided with the Emperor, which caused a conflict with Brussels. The castle was besieged twice by Brussels troops in 1488 and 1489. During the second siege, when the attackers used cannons provided by Louis XI, the fortress fell after a few days, suffering significant damage, especially on the southern side.
In 1491, the fortress was rebuilt on the orders of Maximilian I, with money from defeated Brussels. In the 16th century, when castles began to lose their military functions, Beersel became a private residence. In 1617, roofs were added to the fortified towers. At the end of the 17th century, the castle was abandoned and fell into ruin. In 1818 a cotton factory was established here. In 1928, the abandoned castle was taken over by the League of Friends of Beersel Castle, which began renovating the dilapidated building. Three towers and defensive walls were renovated. Unfortunately, the residential building and the eastern part of the castle were significantly damaged and were not rebuilt. In 1934, Beersel Castle was added to the list of historical monuments.
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Address:
Lotsestraat 65 1650 Beersel |
Opening hours:
01/03-31/03: Saturday-Sunday: 11.00-17.00
01/04-31/05: Wednesday-Friday: 13:00-17:00, Saturday-Sunday: 11:00-17:00 01/06-31/08: Wednesday-Sunday: 11.00-17.00 01/09-31/10: Wednesday-Friday: 13:00-17:00, Saturday-Sunday: 11:00-17:00 01/11-30/11: Saturday-Sunday: 11.00-17.00 |
Fare: 4.5 Euros |
Interesting places around Beersel |
Church of Our Lady in Alsemberg - 5 km
Gaasbeek Castle - 8 km Halle - 8 km Brussels - 10 km Waterloo - 12 km |