Loppem Castle - a pearl of neo-Gothic architecture
This impressive structure was built between 1858 and 1863, just a few kilometers from Bruges. The original architecture and interior design have been preserved to this day. The estate served as a summer residence for the Caloen family, whose members amassed an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. The origin of this magnificent collection was given by the senior of the family, Baron Charles van Caloen. However, the greatest collector in the family was his grandson Jan. The works of art he collected are displayed primarily in rooms on the first floor of the castle.
The collections presented here include dozens of paintings, especially by Flemish painters, magnificent medieval sculptures, manuscripts, graphics and incunabula. The most valuable attractions of the collection undoubtedly include a carved figure of a bishop-saint from around 1520, by Jan Borman, and a stained glass window with a Pietà from around 1460, designed by Vrancke van der Stockt. Jan's son Roland was also an avid collector, especially of Asian and African art. In 1974 he made the estate park accessible to the public, and in 1975 he opened the castle to visitors.
King Albert I and Queen Elizabeth - guests at Loppem Castle
Initially, the main designer of Lopp Castle was the English architect Edward Welby Pugin. Three years later, his place was taken by Jan Bethune, the main proponent of neo-Gothic architecture in Flanders. Pugin designed the furniture, while the stained glass windows, chandeliers, staircases and fireplaces are the work of Bethune. The interiors are decorated in perfect harmony with neo-Gothic architecture. In addition to the impressive living rooms, visitors will also see the family chapel and kitchen. Many people will undoubtedly be delighted by the impressive, seventeen-meter-high hall. Loppem Castle is an extraordinary example of the development of neo-Gothic architecture in Flanders.
In 1918, King Albert I and Queen Elizabeth stayed at the castle. The so-called Loppem Government was also established here, which introduced three revolutionary edicts: universal male suffrage, transformed the University of Ghent into a Dutch-speaking institution, and recognized trade union rights. The castle is surrounded by a romantic English garden, with ancient trees, ponds, and even a maze measuring 65 by 25 meters. The total length of the hedge that forms the maze is approximately one and a half kilometers. In 1985, Loppem Castle and its gardens were declared a protected monument.
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Adres:
Steenbrugsestraat 26 8210 Zedelgem-Loppem |
Opening hours:
Monday-Saturday: 13:00-17:30 |
Fare:
9 Euros |