Gravenwezel Castle

Gravenwezel Castle, locally known as Kasteel 's-Gravenwezel or Kasteel de Pelichy, lies east of the village 's-Gravenwezel, in the province of Antwerp in the Flemish region in Belgium. 

Who first built the castle is unknown, but it was part of a defensive line around the city of Antwerp. In the early Middle Ages, 's-Gravenwezel came under the rule of Breda as a fief. In 1287, it became the property of knight Gerard van Wezemaal. The earliest known vassal of Gravenwezel was Walterus, Count of Wesele, who was mentioned in 1312. During the 14th and 15th centuries, ownership changed several times, and the oldest parts of the castle date back to this period. In 1495, Jan de Glymes, Lord of Bergen op Zoom, purchased the castle, which remained under the March of Bergen op Zoom until 1561.

The castle's most significant period began when the Van Susteren family acquired it in the 18th century. Starting in 1740, it was rebuilt into a modern country mansion by the Antwerp architect JP. van Baurscheit. The former enclosed courtyard was demolished and replaced by a terrace, from which a stone bridge led to the surrounding park. An additional bridge was constructed on the east side of the terrace to connect the U-shaped bailey. The architect preserved the original medieval castle but focused mainly on rebuilding the south facade.

In 1774, the castle came into the possession of widow Isabella Vecquemans de la Vère, who completed the exterior renovation and redecorated the interior. Through hereditary succession, it eventually passed to the barons Gillès de Pélichy, who served as mayors of the nearby village from 1830 to 1929. When the last baroness Gillès de Pélichy died in 1983, her heirs decided to sell the castle.

In 1984, it was purchased by Antwerp art and antique dealer and collector Axel Vervoordt, who now uses it as his residence. He has hosted numerous famous people at the castle, including members of the Belgian and Dutch royal families and pop star Sting. Mr. Vervoordt previously opened the castle to the public twice a year. During a visit, I was amazed by its stunning interiors—truly a must-see. Unfortunately, photography inside the castle was not allowed because of insurance restrictions.

Currently, Gravenwezel Castle is not open to visitors.

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