Burgundian castle of Kortrijk, Medieval château in Kortrijk, Belgium
The Burgundian castle of Kortrijk is a medieval fortress with thick stone walls, corner towers, and a water-filled moat surrounding its perimeter. The structure contains distinct military sections alongside residential areas, organized to serve both defensive and administrative purposes.
The castle was built as a residence for the Dukes of Burgundy and served as a center of power in the region throughout the medieval period. It remained an important stronghold until the late 17th century, when it was gradually abandoned.
The castle held great significance as a seat of power for the ruling families who shaped the region's development. Visitors can see how the building's design reflects the importance placed on both defense and comfortable living.
The castle grounds are accessible on foot and easy to navigate, though some areas can be uneven or muddy depending on recent weather. Visiting on dry days makes exploring the interior passages and tower sections more comfortable.
The fortress was built in stages over time, with each period leaving behind different construction techniques visible in the walls and towers today. This layering of building methods provides a rare record of how medieval fortification methods evolved across centuries.
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