Castle Loppem Travel Guide

Nestled in the municipality of Zedelgem, close to Bruges, Castle Loppem (Kasteel van Loppem) stands as a remarkable testament to neo-Gothic architecture. Constructed between 1858 and 1863 for Baron Charles van Caloen and his wife, Countess Savina de Gourcy Serainchamps, the castle served as a summer residence for the family. The building's design was initially entrusted to English architect Edward Welby Pugin, later followed by Jan Bethune, who ensured a harmonious blend of architecture and interiors.What makes Castle Loppem truly special is the preservation of its original architecture and interior decoration. Visitors can admire the artistic carvings on the stairs, the unique door handles and floor tiles, and wall paintings. The castle also houses an impressive art collection, spanning from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century, including paintings, sculptures, and art from Asia and Africa. A highlight is the stained glass fragment, *Pietà*, dating back to 1460-1470, possibly created by a Brussels painter.The surrounding romantic park, designed in the English landscape style by Jean Gindra, features ancient trees, ponds, and grottos. A notable attraction is the maze, created in 1873 by the young Albert and Ernest van Caloen, offering a fun and immersive experience for visitors. The park is open from sunrise to sunset with free entrance. The castle played a significant role in Belgian history, serving as the headquarters of the Belgian Army in 1918, where King Albert I and Queen Elizabeth resided. Today, the Jean van Caloen Foundation maintains the property and welcomes visitors to explore the castle and its surroundings.