# De Meeus d'Argenteuil Castle

- **Country:** Belgium
- **Location Text:** Westerlo

Located in the municipality of Westerlo, Belgium, the site known locally as De Meeus d'Argenteuil actually encompasses two distinct historic estates belonging to the prominent House of Merode. The older structure, frequently called the 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 two-meter thick walls, it evolved over the following centuries into a luxurious noble residence while retaining its central keep. The estate is surrounded by a twelve-hectare English landscape park and a larger formal French-style garden inspired by the Palace of Versailles, commissioned in the early 18th century by Fieldmarshall Jean-Philippe-Eugène de Mérode-Westerloo.

The second estate, known as the Nieuw Kasteel, was built between 1909 and 1912 for Countess Jeanne de Mérode. Designed by architect Pierre Langerock in a neo-Gothic style, its façade draws inspiration from the nearby abbey of Tongerlo, featuring distinctive towers and a crown-shaped bell tower. Countess Jeanne, a devout philanthropist who remained unmarried, constructed this residence to stay close to the local population she served through various charitable works, including a carpet factory founded to provide employment for women. Her deep connection to the region prompted her to build this new home rather than move to an inherited property elsewhere.

Today, the Old Castle remains a private family home filled with sumptuous interiors containing fine furniture, tapestries, and historical art collected over five centuries. While generally private, key rooms such as the knight's hall and chapel open to the public during the annual Kasteelfeesten festival held in early July. The New Castle stands as a testament to the family's enduring legacy and architectural evolution in the region, representing both medieval fortification traditions and early 20th-century romantic revivalism. Together, these properties highlight the significant historical and cultural influence of the Merode family in Westerlo.

![Photo of De Meeus d'Argenteuil Castle](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7b/Argenteuil_incendie_du_ch%C3%A2teau_Meeus_1847.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_of_Westerlo#Castle_of_Baron_de_Trannoy (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)