Castle de Merode

Located in the municipality of Westerlo, Belgium, the Castle de Merode complex comprises two distinct historic residences known locally as the Old and New Castles. The original structure, or Oud Kasteel, dates back to the late 14th century when it was constructed by the lords of Wesemael using local brown stone. Originally a fortified stronghold with massive keep walls, it served as the ancestral home of the House of Merode for over five centuries. Throughout the 16th century, the building was transformed into a luxurious noble dwelling, losing much of its defensive character before undergoing romantic restorations in the 19th century to revive its medieval aesthetic. Today, the castle remains in excellent condition, housing sumptuous interiors filled with historic furniture, tapestries, and art, with key rooms open to the public during annual July festivals.

The estate is surrounded by a twelve-hectare English landscape park featuring ponds connected to the castle moat, alongside a larger formal French-style garden across the Nete river inspired by the Palace of Versailles. In contrast to the ancient main seat, the New Castle was built between 1909 and 1912 for Countess Jeanne de Mérode. Designed by architect Pierre Langerock in a Neo-Gothic style, its facade draws inspiration from the nearby Tongerlo Abbey and features distinctive towers, including a bell tower shaped like a crown. This residence was erected after the Countess, a devoted philanthropist who founded local industries and charitable institutions, chose to remain in Westerlo rather than move to an inherited property elsewhere. Together, these structures represent a unique blend of military history, aristocratic evolution, and 19th-century charitable legacy within the region.

Videos

Schloss Merode Germany's Fairytale Water Castle | Drone Tour

Kasteel de Merode Castle de Merode Belgium 4K by Falconi

Поездка в Германию 20 декабря 2025 часть 2 Замок Мероде -- Germany trip 2025 part 2 Castle Merode

Romantischer Weihnachtsmarkt und Auftritt des Meroder Christkindes auf Schloss Merode