Across the moat a majestic castle stands. This is the Kasteeldomein van Groot-Bijgaarden. Its history stretches back to the 12th century. Amelricus de Bigard the first lord of Bijgaarden obtained the domain from St Bavos Abbey. He or a successor Arnulfus III likely built the first castle a motte-and-bailey structure. This protected the southern lands. The Bijgaarden family held the castle for centuries. Their line ended in a double-crossed marriage. The castle then passed to the Rongman family.
Willem IV Rongman a descendant served as alderman of Brussels. He even became captain of the city. This was to quell a rebellion in 1421-22. He swore an oath in April 1422. He was granted the Hotel Ostrevant on the Muntplein. However his position was short-lived. John IV Duke of Brabant relieved him of his duties in December 1423. Willem had to return the city keys his appointment deed and the Hotel Ostrevant grant.
The Estor family acquired the Kasteeldomein van Groot-Bijgaarden in 1486. Jan Estor and his mother flirted with Protestantism. This attracted the attention of the authorities. They were besieged in the castle on Christmas Day 1546. After 36 hours the donjon caught fire. They surrendered and were later beheaded.
Gaspard II Schetz a powerful financier bought Groot-Bijgaarden in 1549. He resold it six years later. Ferdinand van Booischot purchased the Kasteeldomein van Groot-Bijgaarden in 1634. He transformed it into what we see today. He added the chapel. In the 18th century Helena van Booischot inherited the castle. She married Karel Ferdinand Count of Konigsegg-Rothenfels. Empress Maria Theresa elevated Groot-Bijgaarden to a marquisate under the name Booischot.
The Kasteeldomein van Groot-Bijgaarden fell into disrepair. Raymond Pelgrims de Bigard began a thirty-year renovation in 1902. His descendants continued his work. Today the Kasteeldomein van Groot-Bijgaarden stands as a testament to perseverance. The five-arched bridge the 30-meter high donjon and the Flemish Renaissance architecture are stunning. The 14-hectare park hosts an international flower exhibition every spring. Millions of tulips bloom there. Visit the Kasteeldomein van Groot-Bijgaarden. Experience its rich history and breathtaking beauty.