Mérode Castle

The central keep of Merode Castle was built in the 14th century from local brown stone, likely replacing an older fortification. During the 16th century, additional parts of the building were added, and the castle underwent alterations and extensions. It transformed from a defensive stronghold into a residence, gradually losing its original fortified character. Restorations in the 19th century gave it back a romantic-medieval appearance. The interiors house a collection of furniture, paintings, and tapestries, gathered by the Merode family. In the early 18th century, Field Marshal Jean-Philippe-Eugène de Mérode-Westerloo commissioned a large formal park in the French style, inspired by Versailles.