In the heart of Turnhout, Belgium, stands a 12th-century castle with a story that’s as fascinating as it is unusual. This is no ordinary castle – it’s the city’s courthouse, and it has been for over two centuries.
A Ducal Residence
The castle was originally built as a residence for the Dukes of Brabant, a duchy that once covered parts of modern-day Belgium and the Netherlands. The dukes’ wealth allowed them to create a luxurious home, complete with a moat and all the comforts of the time.
A Renaissance Palace
In the 16th century, Mary of Hungary, Governor of the Netherlands, transformed the castle into a renaissance palace. She entertained notable guests, including King Phillip II of Spain, within its walls.
The Eighty Years’ War
Turnhout Castle found itself on the front lines of the Eighty Years’ War, a conflict between the Netherlands and Spain that lasted from 1568 to 1648. The war resulted in the division of the Duchy of Brabant and the creation of an independent Dutch Republic.
From Palace to Courthouse
In the 18th century, the castle fell into French hands and was converted into a courthouse and prison. It has served as Turnhout’s courthouse ever since, making it one of the most unusual landmarks in the region.
Visiting Turnhout Castle
While the castle is closed to the public due to its current use, it remains a central part of life in Turnhout. Visitors can admire its exterior and the moat that surrounds it, which is a popular spot for fishing.
Getting There
Turnhout is located in the Antwerp province of Belgium, close to the Dutch border. It’s easily accessible by car or train from major cities like Antwerp and Brussels.
What to See
Along With the castle, Turnhout has a few other sights worth seeing:
- The Church of St. Peter, a Gothic church with a stunning interior
- The Beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once home to a community of religious women
- The Taxandria Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Kempen region
Events
Turnhout hosts several events throughout the year, including the DVV Running Tour, an 11 km marathon that starts and ends at the castle square. If you’re lucky enough to visit during one of these events, you’ll get to see the castle in a whole new light.
More Than Just a Courthouse
While Turnhout Castle may not be open for tours, it’s still a fascinating piece of history that’s worth a visit if you’re in the area. Its transformation from a ducal residence to a renaissance palace to a courthouse is a testament to the many lives that historic buildings can lead.
A Reflection of History
The castle’s story is a reflection of the region’s history, from the wealth and power of the Dukes of Brabant to the conflicts that shaped modern-day Belgium and the Netherlands. It’s a reminder that even the most ordinary-seeming buildings can have extraordinary pasts.
A Unique Landmark
Turnhout Castle may not be the most famous landmark in Belgium, but it’s certainly one of the most unique. How many other cities can say that their courthouse is a medieval castle?
Final Thoughts
If you find yourself in the Antwerp province of Belgium, consider making a stop in Turnhout to see this unusual castle-turned-courthouse. While you may not be able to go inside, you can still admire its exterior and soak up the centuries of history that surround it.
And who knows – maybe you’ll even get to see it serve its current purpose as a courthouse, with lawyers and judges coming and going just as the dukes and their guests once did. It’s a reminder that even the most impressive buildings can take on new roles and meanings over time, and that history is always lurking just beneath the surface of the present.