Castle of Beauraing

Beauraing Castle is located in the park of Castel Castel Sainte-Marie, which is a few hundred metres from the town centre. It is possible to enter the park to see the exterior of the towers, walls and outbuildings of the castle, but it is not possible to visit the interior.

This ancient castle was built in the 13th century. It was destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. However, it was the family of the Duke of Osuna, in the 19th century, who gave it a sumptuous appearance. Unfortunately, in 1889, a fire destroyed the castle. Since then, it has only been partially renovated.

The main entrance is near number 55, Rue des Ardennes. It consists of a monumental porch whose stonework is dated 1570.

Once through the gate, you walk up the main driveway and the first building on your left is the Castel-Sainte-Marie. This building was once used as a stable for the lords. By extension, this name was given to the park.

As you continue to climb, you pass the walls of the old greenhouses on your left. 

Further along, on the right, are the former outbuildings, arranged in a U-shape around a paved courtyard. This complex now provides meeting places and accommodation for young people and families.

Further on, on your right, you can admire the giant sequoias. The Duke of Osuna had these remarkable trees planted in the second half of the 19th century.

Just after the large grassy esplanade, a path enters the wood and leads to the centre of the park where a statue of the Virgin is placed and from which eight paths form a star.

Following the road, you pass the monumental towers.

A little further on, on the right, an area with a statue of the Virgin offers a beautiful view of the town of Beauraing and the surrounding area. 

Pass under the 18th-century gate; on your right is the Saint-Hilaire building. This name was given in honour of the date of purchase (14 January, the feast of Saint Hilaire) of the estate in 1946, by the ASBL Pro Maria.

At the top, facing you, is the other façade of Castel-Sainte-Marie. At the very top of the site is the former inner courtyard of the castle. The three towers framed two wings of the building.

The Hainaut Tower now supports a carillon, the Liège Tower is falling into ruins and the Charles V Tower has been transformed into a guest house and conference room.

The canon dates from 1547.