Chateau VP, Belgium

Chateau VP is a Belgium castle (or, Kasteel) of significant grandeur. The grounds surrounding Chateau VP encompass nearly 60 hectares (over half a square kilometer), the castle itself is surrounded by an imposing moat.

History of the Castle

The exact year of origin of the castle is unknown, but there are references dating back to the late 1300s. During the mid-1400s, militia from a nearby town stormed the castle as they rebelled against the regions duchy. The Duke quickly retook the castle, and executed the militia.

The castle was rebuilt in the 17th Century, as well as an almost total re-build in the 19th Century. Few original features of the pre-19th Century chateau remain. The castle has not been inhabited since the 1950s and was bequeathed to a Catholic charity upon the Baronesses death. It is now used for festivities and cultural activities by locals.

A visit inside Chateau VP

As well as a hidden entry bridge, the servants would have also used the separate small spiral staircases to the residents. Residents would have used the grand marble staircase, well-lit by both a skylight and ornate chandelier. The landings leading off from this servants staircase consists of interlocking stone tiles which are cleverly shaded to give a 3D optical illusion of cubes.

Entry to the castle is via a bridge at the front and rear. There is also a servants walkway and entrance hidden from view below the main entrance bridge. There is also a small dock which enabled goods to be brought directly into the basement kitchen of the Chateau.

Several foyers and rooms lie of the main ground-floor corridor, all with marble fireplaces and tall twisted-effect columns drawing the eye to the very high ceilings. Large arched windows and doors give lovely views of the lush grounds outside. On the first floor a large dining or meeting room is furnished with a heavy, dark wooden table and chairs. In this room the high wooden ceiling with its support beams is very impressive.

After we left a gloriously sunny morning at Chateau VP, we ventured on to Town Mansion (and an amazing atmospheric thunder-storm!).