Écaussinnes-Lalaing Castle, Medieval fortress in Écaussinnes-Lalaing, Belgium
Écaussinnes-Lalaing Castle is a medieval fortress displaying Gothic architecture with multiple towers and fortified walls extending along the Seneffe Valley slopes. The structure contains various rooms and collections that offer visitors insight into how noble families once lived.
Baldwin V, Count of Hainaut, established the initial fortress in 1184, which was later expanded significantly by the Lalaing and Croÿ families. These modifications shaped the castle's appearance over several centuries.
The ground floor museum shows collections from the van der Burch family, displaying porcelain and furniture from the 17th and 18th centuries. These objects tell the story of how wealthy families lived and what they valued in their homes.
The castle is open from April to October on Sundays, with guided tours available for groups. It is wise to prepare in advance since visiting hours are limited and parts of the grounds involve steep slopes.
The castle garden sits on a steep rocky outcrop and benefits from specific weather conditions that have sustained plant life for centuries. This combination of location and climate makes it a notable spot that many visitors overlook.
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