Castle of Beauraing

The castle of Beauraing is located in the park of Castel Sainte-Marie, a few hundred meters from the city center. It is possible to enter the park to view the exterior of the towers, walls, and outbuildings of the castle, but it is not possible to visit the interior.

This old castle was built in the 13th century. It has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. However, it was the family of the duke of Osuna, in the 19th century, who gave it a lavish appearance. Unfortunately, the castle was destroyed by a fire in 1889. Since then, it has only been partially renovated.

The main entrance is at number 55, Rue des Ardennes. It consists of a monumental portal whose masonry dates back to 1570.

Once through the gate, you walk up the driveway and the first building on your left is the Castel-Sainte-Marie. This building was formerly used as a stable for the lords. By extension, this name was given to the park.

If you climb further, you will pass the walls of the old greenhouses on your left.

Further on, on the right, stand the former outbuildings, arranged in a U-shape around a paved courtyard. This complex now offers meeting places and accommodation for young people and families.

Further on, on your right, you can admire the giant sequoias. The duke of Osuna had these remarkable trees planted in the second half of the 19th century.

Just after the large grass-covered esplanade, a path leads into the woods and takes you to the center of the park, where a statue of the Virgin stands and from where eight paths form a star.

If you follow the path, you will pass the monumental towers.

A little further on, on the right, a space with a statue of the Virgin offers a magnificent view of the city of Beauraing and the surrounding area.

Go through the 18th-century gate; on your right, you will see the Saint-Hilaire building. This name was given in tribute to the date of the acquisition (January 14, feast of Saint Hilaire) of the estate in 1946 by the ASBL Pro Maria.

At the top, facing you, is the other facade of Castel-Sainte-Marie. Right at the top of the grounds lies the former courtyard of the castle. The three towers frame two wings of the building.

The Hainaut tower now houses a carillon, the Liège tower is falling into ruins, and the Charles V tower has been converted into a guest house and meeting room.

Eddy&Rita