Bouchout Castle, Medieval castle in Meise, Belgium
Bouchout Castle is a medieval fortress in Meise with defensive towers positioned at each corner and a rectangular layout. The building sits within the National Botanic Garden, surrounded by ponds and landscaped gardens designed in the English style.
The first fortification at this site was built in 1150 by Wouter van Craaynem during the Grimbergen Wars in the Duchy of Brabant. The distinctive square medieval tower constructed by knight Daniel van Bouchout around 1300 remains the oldest surviving part of the structure.
The castle carries the memory of Empress Charlotte of Mexico, who lived here from 1879 onward seeking privacy after traumatic events in her life. Her presence shaped how people view this place as a refuge from public turmoil.
Access to the castle is included with an entry ticket to the National Botanic Garden, which allows visitors to explore selected rooms and exhibitions. Comfortable shoes are recommended since the grounds feature extensive pathways through the surrounding gardens.
The foundation of the current complex is an armed tower structure built by Daniel van Bouchout in medieval times as a defensive response to local conflicts. This oldest structure was later expanded with additional defensive towers and remains recognizable today by its distinctive square shape.
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