Castle Mariagaarde, Hoepertingen

História

In the Middle Ages, a fortified castle was located on the site of the current castle, but it no longer exists. Presently, Mariagaarde consists of buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries. From the 17th century castle, only the moat, gatehouse, northern wing, and some corner towers remain. In the 18th century, the castle was converted into a beautiful mansion in the classical style. The blue salon, the cardinal’s room, and the house chapel date from this time, and give a strong impression of the era. In 1930, the Annuntiate sisters from Heverlee were invited to make use of the empty castle. As a teaching congregation of French origin, the sisters had the castle building thoroughly renovated and established a boarding school. After several decades, however, the school closed, and in 1985, the castle was transformed into a conference and retreat center with a guesthouse. After a thorough modernization in 1987, it is currently a 'center for retreat, art experience, education and regional exploration.’

Alimentos e bebidas

Good to know: the sisters make delicious homemade jam. A sister proclaimed proudly, "Guests who taste this at breakfast always want to buy a jar."

Terrenos e jardins

The castle park provides a pleasant place to stroll, and the castle can be visited on request.