Castle of Laarne | Ghent

The Castle of Laarne (Kasteel van Laarne) is a moated fortress located approximately 11km east of Ghent. it is considered one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Belgium.

Visual Characteristics

The castle exhibits a heavy, defensive medieval exterior characterized by round towers with conical roofs, a square keep (donjon), and a sandstone facade. While the exterior remains medieval, the interior was renovated in the 17th century into a luxurious "maison de plaisance" (summer residence). It features Baroque interiors, ornate fireplaces, and 17th-century Brussels tapestries.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located at Eetveldstraat 1, 9270 Laarne.

Public Transport: Accessible from Ghent-Sint-Pieters station via bus (Line 34), though a car or bicycle is more efficient for this suburban location.

Parking: On-site parking is available for visitors.

Access: Entry requires a paid ticket. Due to its historic structure and many stairs, the castle is not wheelchair accessible, though the gardens and courtyard are.

Historical Origin

The castle's foundations date back to the 11th or 12th century, intended to defend the road to Ghent. Most of the current stone structure was built in the 14th century. In the 17th century, the Van Vilsteren family transformed the fortress into a comfortable aristocratic estate, adding large windows and refined interior decorations. It was donated to the Association of Historic Houses and Gardens in 1953.

Key Highlights & Activities

The Silver Collection: Houses the world-renowned Claude D'Allemagne collection, featuring over 500 pieces of European silver from the 15th to 18th centuries.

The Kitchens: Well-preserved historic kitchens showcasing 17th-century domestic life.

The Pavilion: A Baroque garden structure used for exhibitions.

Movie Sets: The castle is frequently used as a filming location for period dramas due to its authentic atmosphere.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The facility includes a gift shop and the Kasteel van Laarne Restaurant, located in the former coach house. Restrooms are available on-site. Mobile signal (5G) is functional in the area but can be blocked by the castle's thick perimeter walls.

Best Time to Visit

The castle is typically open to the public from April to October, primarily on Sundays and public holidays (1:00 PM to 6:00 PM). During July and August, it is often open on additional weekdays. Always check the official schedule before visiting, as it is a popular venue for weddings and private events.

Facts & Legends

A verified historical detail is that the castle was once a center for witch trials in the 17th century; local records indicate that several "witches" were interrogated and imprisoned in the castle's dungeons. Legend also speaks of a secret underground tunnel connecting the castle to the village church, though no physical evidence has ever been discovered.

Nearby Landmarks

Laarne Village Center – 0.5km North

Ghent City Center – 11km West

Harry Malter Family Park – 4km Southwest

Wetteren Botanical Garden – 5km Southeast