Kasteel van Ooigem, Medieval castle in Wielsbeke, Belgium.
Kasteel van Ooigem is a rectangular castle in Wielsbeke built from brick and sandstone, featuring two courtyards surrounded by moats. The estate also contains a 17th-century farmhouse and preserved semi-underground cellars within its grounds.
The castle originated in the 9th century as a fortress protecting Harelbeke. Lambertus de Odenghem was recorded as its first lord in 1080.
This castle inspired author Stijn Streuvels to write his 1904 story 'Op het kasteel'. The estate also attracted notable visitors like writer Oscar Wilde, who explored its rooms and grounds.
The castle features two separate courtyards with distinct areas to explore throughout the grounds. Comfortable shoes are recommended since the terrain can be uneven, especially around the older cellar sections.
During the Liberation of Ooigem on September 8, 1944, the castle served as a field hospital for German soldiers. This wartime role reveals how the structure became significant during turbulent times.
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