Esquelbecq Castle

Esquelbecq Castle is a square structure with eight corner turrets surrounded by a moat and accessed via two bridges. A white stone border embedded in the walls marks the high social standing of its former owners.

The original wooden fortress from the 9th century was later transformed into a stone structure, first appearing in documents in 1299 when Beatrix of Esquelbecq married Gauthier Ghistelles. This marriage marked an important turning point in the development of the place.

The castle displays typical northern French features with its moat and thick walls that underscore the defensive strength of this noble residence. Visitors can still see structures that demonstrated the power and wealth of its former occupants over the centuries.

The castle and its gardens are accessible to visitors only during the warm season between May and mid-September. All visits require advance booking, so interested visitors should plan ahead.

Several outbuildings on the grounds date from the early 1600s, including a 1615 inn with mysterious runic symbols carved into its gable. These rare markings hint at hidden connections that visitors can discover while exploring the courtyard.