Kruikenburg Castle

Kruikenburg Castle, locally known as Kasteel Kruikenburg, lies in the town of Ternat, in the province of Flemish Brabant in the Flemish region in Belgium.

The first fortification at this site was a moated watchtower, probably built in the 12th century. It was constructed by the Lords of Wezemaal, who were confiscating forests and lands in the area, to the detriment of Nivelles Abbey.

During the 14th century, the old fortification was purchased by knight Everard t'Serclaes, who was also an alderman of Brussels. He then rebuilt it into a walled castle and used it as his residence.

From the 16th to the 19th century, Kruikenburg Castle served as the residence of the De Fourneau family. Their domain was elevated to a county in 1662. The De Fourneaus enlarged the castle and gave it a more residential appearance during the 18th century. Later that century, however, their county was dissolved by the French.

In the early 20th century, the castle was home to the Counts of Lichtervelde. Later, it was acquired by the De La Salle Brothers, a Catholic lay religious congregation active in education. They filled in part of the moat to the east of the castle to build a school. In recent years, the castle came under the control of the local council.

Currently, the castle, surrounded by a large moat, features a U-shaped layout with a round corner tower, two turrets, and a square gate tower. Apparently, there is also an underground tunnel believed to connect the castle to the Church of St. Gertrude, about 300 meters to the east. It is thought to have been built during the 14th century and is now said to be used as a wine cellar.

Kruikenburg Castle can be visited freely from the outside. Its interior is used for cultural activities. A beautiful castle.

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