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Castle of Wissekerke
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Wissekerke Castle is located in Bazel, part of the Kruibeke municipality, and served for over 200 years as the ancestral seat of the influential Vilain XIIII family. Originally built as a medieval moated castle, the structure underwent an extensive Neo-Gothic transformation during the 19th century. Particularly noteworthy is the iron suspension bridge in the castle park, constructed in 1824, which is considered the oldest surviving suspension bridge of its kind on the European mainland. The interior of the castle impresses with grand Empire-style rooms and Neo-Gothic decorations, reflecting the wealth and status of its former inhabitants. Today, the castle is owned by the municipality of Kruibeke and functions as a museum and a venue for cultural events. Surrounded by a photogenic English landscape park, Wissekerke provides a unique ensemble of architectural and engineering history.
- Location: Belgium
- Top sights: Sint-Jozefkerk · Heilige Familiekerk · Moerlandkasteel
- Nearby: Beveren (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 3 | 6 | 10 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 7 | 4 |
| Rain mm | 69 | 60 | 55 | 38 | 59 | 64 | 76 | 81 | 57 | 67 | 73 | 79 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Castle of Wissekerke in Bazel is a former noble residence and is typically open for visits. The interior and gardens are accessible.
Typical hours
The castle usually opens from April to October, Tuesday to Sunday, often 10 am to 5 pm. During winter months it is mostly closed.
Photography
Photography indoors is allowed without flash, in the gardens generally permitted. Special exhibitions may have restrictions.
Time needed
A visit takes about 1.5 hours to explore the main rooms and park. A stroll through the adjacent forest may extend the time.
Combine with
Combine with nearby De Ster leisure park or the town of Temse. The Scheldt riverbanks are also worth a stroll.
Getting there
Accessible by car via the E17 or N16; parking at the castle. Temse train station is 2 km away, bus connections available.
Insider tip
Visit the gardens in spring when flowers are in bloom. Look out for the water moats and the historic drawbridge.
Geography
Facts
- The iron suspension bridge was designed in 1824 by Jean-Baptiste Vifquain.
- The castle was owned by noble families from 1360 until 1989.
- The Neo-Gothic transformation took place between 1844 and 1845.
- The Vilain XIIII family produced several important Belgian politicians.
- The castle is located in the heart of Bazel, considered one of Flanders' most beautiful villages.
- The castle park covers an area of approximately 15 hectares.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Castle of Wissekerke (10)
Moerlandkasteel🏰 castle
Don Boscokerk
Kasteel Walburg🏰 castle
Witte Molen
Exaerdekenshof🏰 castle
Sint-Nicolaaskerk⛪ church
Dekenij
Stadhuis Sint-Niklaas
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is there a museum in the Castle of Wissekerke?
Yes, the castle houses a museum that provides insights into the life of the noble family.
What is special about the suspension bridge at the castle?
It is the oldest surviving iron suspension bridge in Europe (built in 1824).
Can the castle park be visited?
Yes, the surrounding English landscape park is open to the public.
Where is Wissekerke Castle located?
It is located in the village of Bazel, part of the municipality of Kruibeke in East Flanders.
Are there parking facilities at the castle?
Yes, there are parking spaces near the castle and in the center of Bazel.
Castle of Wissekerke: where is it located?
Castle of Wissekerke is located in Belgium.
Castle of Wissekerke: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sint-Jozefkerk, Heilige Familiekerk, Moerlandkasteel.
Castle of Wissekerke: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Castle of Wissekerke: why is it worth visiting?
Wissekerke Castle is located in Bazel, part of the Kruibeke municipality, and served for over 200 years as the ancestral seat of the influential Vilain XIIII family.
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