Pietersheim Castle

Pietersheim Castle, locally known as Kasteel Pietersheim, lies in the village of Lanaken, in the Limburg province in the Flemish region in Belgium.

Archaeological evidence shows that a castle has existed at this site since the end of the 11th century. Pietersheim Castle was first mentioned in 1292. At that time, the castle likely had a circular rampart surrounded by a moat. In 1378, the castle was destroyed by troops from Tongeren and the Prince-Bishopric of Liège.

It was rebuilt and reinforced, resulting in a circular rampart with up to three concentric moats, a bailey, a chapel, and fortified entrances. The Van Merode family acquired the castle in 1449 and expanded it, adding a kitchen wing and a corps de logis. Although the early medieval parts of the castle had deteriorated, they were also strengthened with the addition of two casemates.

In 1569, Pietersheim Castle was besieged by the pro-Spanish Cardinal Bishop Gerard van Groesbeeck. In 1579, the castle was captured by Alexander Farnese, Duke of Parma and Governor of the Spanish Netherlands. He then established his headquarters there during the Siege of Maastricht.

The Prince-Bishop of Liège ordered the demolition of all defensive structures of the castle in 1670, leading to its falling into disrepair. This caused part of the corps de logis to collapse in 1720.

In 1792, a new castle was built on the bailey. The old medieval castle burned down in 1836, and its remaining structures were subsequently demolished. The new castle, built in 1792, also burned down in 1909. Then, on its remains, a new castle was constructed in 1910, only to burn down again in 1920. The castle was rebuilt once more in 1926. This is the neoclassical castle that stands today, next to the ruins of the medieval castle.

Currently, Pietersheim Castle is open to visitors during opening hours. It’s a charming castle ruin, even though there isn’t much to see inside. The neoclassical castle houses a hotel and restaurant.

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