Castle of 's-Gravenwezel

The castle of 's-Gravenwezel was built in the 13th century. It has a park of 80 ha, and a double wall. The original construction date is unknown, but the castle was already mentioned in the 13th century charters of the abbey of Villers in South Brabant. It is therefore highly probable that Gerard de Marbais, who had close ties to Villers Abbey, was the first occupant of the castle. The original castle has undergone some changes over time.
Originally the castle had two donjons or round corner towers. These were built in the 14th century. Over the centuries, the right-hand keep has disappeared.

Additional information about the castle:
The east, west and north facades are Gothic and date from the 15th century. The Baroque gatehouse with pigeon tower dates from the 17th century. Finally, the rococo south facade, which faces the park of the castle, was completely renovated in the 18th century together with the immense terrace by the then well-known Antwerp architect Van Baurscheit, who at the same time was also working on a beautiful house on the Meir in Antwerp.
The castle of 's-Gravenwezel and its successive inhabitants are closely linked to the history of 's-Gravenwezel. The last Baron José Gillès de Pélichy died in 1977. The castle is now owned by 'Antiquarian - Axel Vervoort'. Axel also owns the Vlaeykensgang in Antwerp.

The Great Castle in my native village dates from the 13th century. It was built in Gothic style. In the 14th century, 2 imposing corner towers were built. Only 1 is still standing. The gatehouse was added in the Baroque period (16th - 17th century). Later, the castle became a moated castle. Now it is the residence of antique dealer Axel Vervoordt If you ever get the chance to get past the entrance gate... DO IT. I have been lucky enough to discover this gem several times in my youth. Now you can simply stroll along the shady moat.

Philippe Gillès received this property as a gift from his first wife Josèphe-Marie Roose de Baisy, heiress of the van Susteren family, Heren van 's-Gravenwezel.

He left the castle to his cousin Baron Philippe Gillès de Pélichy (1832-1920), husband of Caroline de Brouchoven de Bergeyck.

She then gave it to her son Henri, who in turn left it to his cousin José Gillès de Pélichy.

Since José died without descendants, his heirs sold the castle to the famous antiquarian Axel Vervoordt.