Herzele Castle

Herzele Castle, locally known as Burcht van Herzele, lies in the center of the town with the same name, in the province of East Flanders in the Flemish region in Belgium.

The first castle at this site was probably built in the early 7th century and consisted only of a wooden structure protected by earthen walls and water. It served as a refuge against the Vikings.

In the 11th century, the wooden structure was replaced with a sandstone castle. That period was turbulent for the region; in 1056, Baldwin V, Count of Flanders, took control of the area, separating it from the German Empire.

In 1096, Franco, Lord of Herzele, went on his crusade, likely strengthening the castle before leaving his family.

Throughout the 13th century, there are no records of the castle. However, in 1381, the castle was involved in a war between the Count of Flanders and the townspeople of Ghent, leading to its destruction. It was owned by Seger, Lord of Herzele, at that time. The nearby church and houses were also burned. The castle was rebuilt in the 15th century by John V of Roubaix.

In 1579, the castle's fate was sealed because of Pierre de Melun's Protestant beliefs; Spanish troops besieged it. Their cannons shattered the castle, leaving only the current tower and walls intact. Afterward, it fell into ruin.

Ownership changed hands several times until 1969, when the town council bought the land. This was followed by a period of restoration, consolidation, and excavation.

Today, you can see a restored corner tower with three floors, along with the foundations of the gate towers, curtain walls, and a keep. It is a charming little ruin in a quaint town, located in the town park and freely accessible. Only the restored corner tower is closed, and it’s unclear to me whether the interior can be visited.

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