# New Castle of Ansembourg

- **Country:** Luxembourg
- **Location Text:** Ansembourg

The New Castle of Ansembourg, also known as the Grand Château d'Ansembourg, is situated in central Luxembourg within the scenic Valley of the Seven Castles. Located approximately one kilometer below the Old Castle of Ansembourg, this historic structure was originally constructed in 1639 by Thomas Bidart, a pioneering industrialist from Liège who established Luxembourg's iron and steel industry. Initially named the Maison des Forges, the building began as a comfortable residence surrounded by defensive walls and towers. Its early history is deeply intertwined with the Thirty Years' War, during which Bidart exploited local resources to manufacture arms, allowing his family to prosper and eventually acquire the title of Lords of Ansembourg.

The castle underwent a significant architectural transformation in the eighteenth century under the de Marchant family, who inherited the property through marriage. In 1719, they extended the courtyard with two wings and added a southern gable featuring an arch with statues representing the four continents. Further enhancements between 1740 and 1759 included expanded gardens, staff lodgings, and an impressive Baroque gateway bearing the family coat of arms. These renovations shifted the style from a fortified house to a modern-looking estate with elegant façades overlooking manicured flowerbeds and fountains.

In the twentieth century, the site served briefly as Vita International, a study abroad program for American college students during 1969 and 1970, before closing unexpectedly. Since 1987, the castle has been owned by Sukyo Mahikari, a Japanese new religious organization. It currently functions as the group's regional headquarters for Europe and Africa, hosting various ceremonies while maintaining its historical integrity. The property remains a notable landmark that blends industrial origins, Baroque elegance, and contemporary spiritual use.

![Photo of New Castle of Ansembourg](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/84/Ansembourg_New1.JPG)

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