Elewijt Castle

Elewijt Castle is a stone fortress in Elewijt, Belgium, divided into two clearly distinct sections. The right wing served as living quarters while the left wing housed staff accommodations.

The castle was built in 1304 by local knights of Wilre, replacing an earlier wooden fortification from the 11th century. In 1635 it was acquired by painter Peter Paul Rubens who redesigned it in Flemish Renaissance style.

The painter Peter Paul Rubens shaped the castle from 1635 onward and captured it in his artwork. His artistic vision influenced how people understood and valued the property for centuries to come.

The castle currently remains in private ownership and is not open to visitors at this time. Future public access is being considered, so it is worth checking for updates before planning a visit.

Above the fireplace in the living room hangs Rubens' personal coat of arms, a rare detail that confirms his presence at the castle. He lived there for five years between 1635 and 1640.

Location: Zemst

GPS coordinates: 50.95931,4.47739

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:00