Top 20 Castles around Scherpenheuvel-Zichem
Best castles around Scherpenheuvel-Zichem are situated in a region characterized by the Demer Valley and the Hageland hills. This area offers a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes. The local geography features gentle slopes and river plains, providing varied terrain for exploration. Visitors can discover significant historical structures that reflect the region's past.
Best castles around Scherpenheuvel-Zichem
- The most popular castles is Horst Castle, a castle located between the hills of Hagelands. This idyllic moated castle from theβ¦
Last updated: October 13, 2026
Horst Castle
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De Merode Castle, Westerlo
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Jeanne de Merode Castle (Westerlo Town Hall)
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Information board Domain Castle of Horst
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Lobos Manor Farm
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From Flanders to the Ardennes β GR 5 in Belgium
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Tips from the Community
Easy to peek through the gap next to the gate...
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Information board with a map of the Horst castle estate, there is also parking here.
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Over the years, the castle was modernized and updated. This included the tower, whose heavy line of the fortified wall was broken by irregular window and door arrangements. The castle still houses remarkable works of art. The neo-Gothic armory houses a cast-iron stove from 1539 and two marble Renaissance mantelpieces. The castle also contains important paintings, tapestries, gold leather wallpaper, and furniture in a variety of styles. (Municipality of Westerlo)
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The castle, built between 1909 and 1911 and designed by P. Langerock, was occupied by the Germans during World War II and later became a retirement home for priests. Since 1973, it has served as a town hall with a surrounding municipal park between Boerenkrijglaan, Hollandse dreef, and Merodedreef. The surrounding park features a neo-traditional gatehouse (number 63) and a gardener's house (Hollandse dreef numbers 1-3); and also includes a former sheepfold and pump house. The park surrounding the castle was transformed into an ornamental garden after World War I by the then gardener, F. Verrezen. In front of the castle: a fountain, dating from 1995 and designed by Architektuur Atelier BVBA. (Inventory of Immovable Heritage)
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If a town hall can really be beautiful...
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The core of Horst Castle probably dates back to the 13th century and is characterised by a square keep. The keep probably belonged to the oldest core that was further expanded into a fortified castle in the 15th century. During the troubles under Maximilian of Austria in 1489, the castle of Horst was taken by the people of Leuven and set on fire. According to literary sources, only the keep, part of the entrance gate and a defensive wall remained standing. The residential and east wing were renovated and expanded in the 16th century. The round tower also dates from this period. The outer wall was provided with a rectangular bay window. The castle lost its military character and became more of a pleasant residential area with a view of the moat, the ponds and the inner courtyard. Brick construction with sandstone layers characterise these buildings. In 1587, however, the castle was set on fire again during the raids of the Geuzen. It was not until the beginning of the 17th century that restoration work began. It is difficult to deduce from the available sources to what extent this involved restoration or an embellishing conversion of the castle complex. Presumably nothing changed in the internal structure, but only after the structurally necessary repairs were the interiors completely refinished. Maria-Anna Van den Tympel had a new chapel built against the keep in the 17th century. At the beginning of the 19th century, the complex must have been damaged by plundering and neglect, and it is possible that it also suffered from plundering during the Brabant Revolution of 1830. Around 1850, the castle must have been habitable again, but the castle buildings only served as a farm. In the land registry, the site around the castle is called "De Notelaren Boomgaerd". Around that time, the most dilapidated part must have been demolished, namely the southern part and the superstructure of the gate. The rest of the complex was probably restored with reused demolition material and in traditional style. The castle was divided in 1880, with one part being registered as a school house. In 1897, a further division followed, with two plots being designated as houses. Several restoration campaigns followed in the 20th century. Inventory of Immovable Heritage: Horst Castle, https://id.erfgoed.net/erfgoedobjecten/43619
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Since December, there has been a spire on the castle again after the unstable spire was removed more than four years ago and could be viewed on a wooden platform in the pond. Now it is back. And the other works are also progressing quickly. More about the replaced spire on https://www.vrt.be/vrtnws/nl/2024/12/10/torenspits-staat-weer-op-kasteel-van-horst-holsbeek/
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The castle of Jeanne de Merode serves as a town hall.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most historically significant castles in the Scherpenheuvel-Zichem area?
The region boasts several castles with rich histories. The Horst Castle, a 13th-century moated castle, has been home to lords since its inception and features a 15th-century square keep. The De Merode Castle, Westerlo, has been linked to the de Merode family for over five centuries, with its oldest part dating back to around 1300. Additionally, the 14th-century Maagdentoren (Maiden's Tower) in Zichem served as a crucial border defense tower.
Are there any family-friendly castles to visit around Scherpenheuvel-Zichem?
Yes, several castles are considered family-friendly. Horst Castle is a popular choice, offering a picturesque setting and a brasserie. The De Merode Castle, Westerlo, occasionally hosts annual castle parties and events that attract families. The Jeanne de Merode Castle (Westerlo Town Hall), with its impressive appearance and beautiful front garden, is also suitable for a family visit.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see near these castles?
The castles in this region are often set amidst beautiful natural landscapes. Horst Castle is nestled in the green valley of the Wingebeek, surrounded by a large pond and moat. The De Merode Castle, Westerlo, features a vast 60-hectare park with a pond. The Maagdentoren offers panoramic views of the Demer Valley and surrounding countryside from its observation platform.
Can I go hiking or cycling near the castles in Scherpenheuvel-Zichem?
Absolutely! The region around Scherpenheuvel-Zichem offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find various hiking routes, such as the Demerbroeken Nature Reserve loop, and cycling routes, including those passing by the Maagdentoren Zichem. For more detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Scherpenheuvel-Zichem or Road Cycling Routes around Scherpenheuvel-Zichem guides.
Is there a castle that is still inhabited or offers special events?
Yes, De Merode Castle, Westerlo, is still inhabited by the Princes de Merode. While it is a private residence, it occasionally opens to the public for specific cultural events, such as historical musicals or Christmas-themed tours. These events provide a rare chance to explore its rich interiors and historical significance.
What is the accessibility like for visitors with wheelchairs or buggies at these castles?
Horst Castle is noted as being difficult to access for wheelchair users and buggies due to its historical structure. For other locations, it's advisable to check specific accessibility information before your visit, especially for older, preserved sites.
Are dogs allowed at the castles or on their grounds?
At Horst Castle, dogs are permitted on the castle grounds, allowing you to enjoy the exterior and surrounding areas with your pet. However, they are not allowed inside the castle itself.
What is the best time to visit the castles around Scherpenheuvel-Zichem?
The region's castles can be enjoyed throughout the year. For events at De Merode Castle, specific dates are announced, often in July for annual Castle Feasts. The observation platform at the Maagdentoren offers views up to 30 kilometers on clear days, making sunny weather ideal for panoramic vistas.
Where can I find cafes or pubs near the castles for refreshments?
Near Horst Castle, you'll find the Brasserie Wagenhuis, which is ideal for a stop if you're looking for refreshments or a meal. For other castles, local towns like Westerlo and Zichem offer various cafes and pubs where you can relax and refuel.
What makes the Maagdentoren in Zichem unique?
The Maagdentoren (Maiden's Tower) is a unique 14th-century fortified tower, or donjon, known for its impressive 4-meter thick walls at the base. It's steeped in local folklore, including the legend of a nobleman's daughter imprisoned within. After restoration, it now features an observation platform offering extensive panoramic views of the Demer Valley.
Is there a castle that now serves a modern purpose?
Yes, the Jeanne de Merode Castle, built between 1909 and 1911, now serves as Westerlo's town hall. This impressive building, with its beautiful front garden, offers a blend of historical architecture and contemporary civic function.
What is the Lobos Manor Farm and its historical background?
The Lobos Manor Farm, or Loboskasteel, located in Zelem, was originally the seat of an allodial lordship with a moated castle. While the original castle was destroyed in 1465, the current structure is a 19th-century whitewashed brick mansion. It's situated in a park with remarkable trees and remnants of its ancient moat, reflecting centuries of history in the Zwarte Beek valley.
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