# De Viron Castle

- **Country:** Belgium
- **Coordinates:** 50.847900, 4.263600
- **Location Text:** Dilbeek

De Viron Castle, known locally as Kasteel de Viron, is a prominent historical landmark located in Dilbeek within the Flemish Brabant province of Belgium. Constructed in 1863, the structure was designed by the renowned architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaar and commissioned by the de Viron family, who had established roots in the region since 1775. The building exemplifies the Renaissance Revival architectural style and was erected on the site of a 14th-century fortification that was destroyed just a year prior to its construction. Despite the demolition of the original fortress, remnants of its history remain visible today, most notably the Sint-Alenatoren, a medieval tower named after Saint Alena that still stands within the surrounding park grounds.

The castle is celebrated for its unique architectural symbolism, which intricately reflects the Julian Calendar. The design features exactly 12 towers representing the months, 52 rooms for the weeks, 365 windows for the days, and 7 staircases for the days of the week. Beyond the main residence, the estate includes several auxiliary structures of interest, such as a historic farm, an ice cellar, and a coach house, all set within a scenic park. This deliberate numerical integration makes the building a fascinating subject for architectural enthusiasts and historians alike.

In terms of historical significance and current utility, De Viron Castle has served a vital civic role for over a century. Since 1923, the property has functioned as the town hall and municipal offices for Dilbeek, transitioning from a private noble residence to a center of local governance. Recognizing its cultural and architectural value, the Belgian authorities officially listed the castle as a protected monument in 1990. Today, it remains in excellent condition, continuing to house administrative offices while standing as a preserved testament to the region's rich heritage and the legacy of the de Viron family.

![Photo of De Viron Castle](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/fe/Dilbeek_town_house_0001.jpg)

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