Beaulieu Castle, Baroque castle in Machelen, Belgium
Beaulieu Castle is a baroque castle in Machelen built from local sandstone and distinguished by large windows on its front and rear facades. The structure displays classical baroque features with symmetrical surfaces and was originally designed as a residential castle for an aristocratic family.
The castle was built between 1653 and 1656 by architect Lucas Fayd'herbe for Count Lamoral II of Tour and Taxis. Jean-Paul Bombarda, founder of the Theatre de la Monnaie, later lived in the building and shaped its history as a patron of the arts.
The name Beaulieu means 'beautiful place' and reflects the original owner's intention to create a pleasant residence. Visitors can still experience the elegant proportions and carefully designed rooms today, showing how wealthy families lived during that era.
The site can be visited and the surrounding landscape is pleasant for walking. The castle is easily accessible and offers a good impression of baroque architecture in a quiet setting.
The Hercules Room received protected monument status in 1950, while the facades and entrance stairs were only protected in 1955. This gradual recognition shows how important individual rooms and details were considered for historical preservation.
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