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Kruibeke

Top 20 Castles around Kruibeke

Castles around Kruibeke offer insight into the region's history, situated near the Scheldt River. The area features flat landscapes, agricultural fields, and natural areas such as the Polders of Kruibeke. This municipality in Flanders, Belgium, provides a setting for exploring historical sites and outdoor activities. The castles reflect centuries of architectural evolution and strategic importance along the river.

Best castles around Kruibeke

  • The most popular castles is Wissekerke Castle, a castle that was originally a moated castle from the…

Last updated: July 1, 2026

Het Steen

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Het Steen, the oldest building in Antwerp, was built between 1200 and 1225 as the gate of the Antwerp castle. It served as a prison until 1823 and later as …

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Fort Steendorp

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The walking trail around the walls of the fort (1.6 km) is freely accessible from sunrise to sunset. Boots are recommended in rainy weather. The trail is not suitable for prams and wheelchairs.

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Wissekerke Castle

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Wissekerke Castle in Basel was originally a real moated castle, the first mentions of which date back to the tenth century. Later, the noble Vilain XIIII family converted the castle …

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Graventoren - Rupelmonde

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Today the tower is owned by the municipality and is open to the general public. You can even climb it. That is absolutely worth it, because the 360° panorama that …

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Fort Liezele

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Please be patient, because the fort museum is currently being completely renovated, so a visit is unfortunately not yet possible. From May 1, 2023, Fort Liezele will offer a brand …

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Two days Cycling in the border region – Between de Schelde and Zeeland

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Two days Cycling in the border region – Between de Schelde and Zeeland

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Jeff S
January 24, 2026, Wissekerke Castle

Wissekerke Castle...

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Few buildings in the Waasland region hold such a mythical allure as the Graventoren (Counts' Tower) in Rupelmonde. The names associated with it certainly contribute to that. This tower, for example, is the remnant of a moated castle with no fewer than 17 towers, once owned by the Counts of Flanders. This colossal fortress protected the Scheldt River from attackers and conquerors. Mercator's Dungeon Mercator also plays a key role in this story. When he shared his revolutionary insights with the world, he was promptly sent to the dungeon by the church authorities. Guess where that dungeon was located? Exactly, in the cellars of the Graventoren. Here he was imprisoned for seven months, accused of heresy. A Bloody History Mercator, however, was not the only one to enter the cellars of the moated castle. Many dissidents suffered the same fate, and often worse. A stay in the dungeons of the Graventoren (Counts' Tower) often ended with a bloody decapitation. While the Counts of Flanders may have enjoyed legendary status in history, they were certainly not gentlemen. Count Robert of Bethune once even threw his own son in jail here, accused of high treason. A kind of chamber arrest before its time, you might say. At the end of the 17th century, the moated castle came to an end. The fortress was drastically destroyed, and the rubble was reused for other buildings. For example, the church of Rupelmonde was built with materials from the castle ruins.

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Unfortunately the tower was not open, but it is still a beautiful site to walk past. A nice surprise and definitely worth taking a detour from your route.

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Remains of the 12th century moated castle built by the Counts of Flanders to defend the Scheldt and the Rupel.

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Henne
December 28, 2024, Het Steen

Located directly on the Schlede and centrally in Antwerp, I didn't expect to see this magnificent castle there. The castle looks like one of the medieval castles from the earlier knight films. I found it very fascinating. The castle is also Antwerp's oldest building. Of course, it can also be visited.

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More information about the fort can be found at: https://www.fortliezele.be

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There is a brand new museum pavilion in Domain Park Fort Liezele. Here you can get your 'Visit Fort' tickets and you can also purchase museum souvenirs. You can also find all tourist information about Klein Brabant here. Very friendly welcome. Opening hours: all year round from 10am to 5pm. Closing day: Tuesday

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'Visit Fort Liezele, une histoire forte' is an excellent location for history buffs who love a 'Tall story'. The Fort of Liezele was part of the fortification ring around the Fortress of Antwerp. When it was built in 1908, Fort Liezele formed an important link in the defense belt around Antwerp. Despite the active role that the fort played during the first months of the war (August 1914), it emerged relatively unscathed from the battle. The building was protected as a monument and has already undergone several rounds of restoration. This makes Fort Liezele the best preserved concrete armored fort in the entire Antwerp fortification belt. The museum is unique and educational, but the most important object in the collection is still the building itself! Discover the fort, its impressive collection and the fascinating history that was written here.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Wissekerke Castle a unique historical site to visit?

Wissekerke Castle in Bazel is notable for its 19th-century neo-Gothic architecture and one of Europe's oldest wrought iron suspension bridges, designed in 1824. It also features an expansive English-style park, medieval cellars, and a 16th-century pigeon tower. The castle offers an interactive visitor experience, guided by the story of Viscountess Zoé de Feltz, making history engaging for all ages. You can find more details about its history and features on Wissekerke Castle's highlight page.

Are there other historical sites besides castles in the Kruibeke area?

Yes, the region offers other significant historical sites. Fort Steendorp is a 19th-century brick fort, originally built to protect Antwerp, now serving as a nature reserve and bat sanctuary with a walking trail. Additionally, the Graventoren in Rupelmonde is a remnant of a 12th-century moated castle, offering panoramic views and an exhibition on its history.

Can I go for a walk or enjoy nature near Wissekerke Castle?

Absolutely. Wissekerke Castle is set within a picturesque English-style park of over 33 hectares, complete with a lake and monumental beech trees, perfect for walks. The nearby Polders of Kruibeke, a beautiful natural area along the Scheldt, provides further opportunities for exploration and enjoying the outdoors.

Are there viewpoints near the castles in Kruibeke?

Several sites offer excellent viewpoints. The Het Steen in Antwerp, while primarily a visitor center, provides views of the Scheldt. Fort Steendorp, now a nature reserve, offers scenic views along its walking trail. The Graventoren in Rupelmonde allows visitors to climb to the top for a unique 360° panorama of the entire region.

How can I find out about opening hours or tickets for Wissekerke Castle?

For the most current information on opening hours, ticket prices, and visitor details for Wissekerke Castle, it is best to check their official website or a reliable local tourism resource. You can often find up-to-date information on sites like Visit A City or Castles.nl.

Are there family-friendly castles to visit around Kruibeke?

Yes, several castles and historical sites are suitable for families. Wissekerke Castle is particularly welcoming, offering tailored audio guides for children and a youth trail. Het Steen in Antwerp, now a visitor center, also has family-friendly aspects, allowing visitors to explore its history in an engaging way.

Are the castles around Kruibeke dog-friendly?

While specific castle interiors may have restrictions, the outdoor areas are often dog-friendly. The expansive park surrounding Wissekerke Castle is ideal for walks with leashed dogs. Similarly, Fort Steendorp, being a nature reserve with walking trails, is generally suitable for dogs, though always check local regulations for specific areas.

What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?

The region around Kruibeke offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the "Graventoren - Rupelmonde – Tilleken Tangdijk loop," or explore the "Polders of Kruibeke" with routes like the "Kruibeke Polder Nature Reserve loop." For cycling, options include the "View of Nieuw-Zuid Antwerp loop" or the longer "Arcade by Gijs Van Vaerenbergh loop." Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy trails like the "Rupelmond Creek hiking trail" or the "Barbier Brook hiking trail." More details on these activities can be found in the Running Trails around Kruibeke, Cycling around Kruibeke, and Hiking around Kruibeke guides.

What is the best time of year to visit the castles in Kruibeke?

The castles and their surrounding parks are enjoyable throughout the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the expansive parks and outdoor areas, such as the one at Wissekerke Castle. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, especially along the castle avenues. Winter walks can also be charming, particularly in nature reserves like Fort Steendorp, though boots are recommended in wet conditions.

Are there cafes or pubs near the castles in Bazel or Kruibeke?

The village of Bazel, where Wissekerke Castle is located, and the wider Kruibeke municipality offer local establishments where you can find refreshments. Rupelmonde, home to the Graventoren, is also known for its pleasant cafes and terraces, providing a good spot to relax after exploring.

What do visitors enjoy most about the castles and historical sites in the Kruibeke area?

Visitors appreciate the rich history and architectural beauty of sites like Wissekerke Castle, with its unique features and interactive exhibits. The blend of historical exploration with natural beauty, such as the parks and nearby Polders, is also highly valued. Many enjoy the opportunity for walks and cycling, and the sense of stepping back in time that these well-preserved structures offer.

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