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Pictogram identifying a member of the VISITWallonia.be Pass
  • Attractions
  • Châteaux
  • Park (castles)
  • Architectural heritage

Modave castle, listed as major cultural heritage of Wallonia, is well worth the detour. Built on a rocky hill in the province of Liège, it is said to date back to the Middle Ages.

Château de Modave | Wallonie, Terre d'eau

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This superb building, listed as a major heritage site in Wallonia, was built on a 60 metres high rocky outcrop overlooking the Hoyoux river and valley. The view over Condroz simply is breathtaking.

History

The castle was first mentioned in 1233 as a small fortress defending the town of Huy. The current chateau was built in the late 17th century by the Count of Marchin, with two distinctive towers, mansard roof and classical façade which transformed the fortress into an elegant country house.

The relatively unadorned exterior though belies the extraordinary richness of the twenty highly decorated rooms of the living quarters of the castle, where elaborate stucco ceilings, large Brussels tapestries and carved panelling hung with period paintings create an ambiance of unrestrained opulence.

The castle is set at the heart of a 450-hectare nature reserve which can be viewed from the recently restored terrace overlooking the river. Today it belongs to Vivaqua, a company which manages the extensive number of springs and wells in the park and which is restoring the chateau to its former glory.

Visiting the castle

There are 25 rooms to discover along the basement, ground and first floor, audio guide in hand (available in 8 languages). Don't miss the gallery dedicated to the water wheel built in Modave by master carpenter Renkin Sualem. The visit concluded with the screening of a short movie.

Classic French gardens

Redeveloped in the 19th century, the French-style park and gardens have been recognized as exceptional heritage Parks & Gardens of Wallonia. They are accessible free of charge during the opening hours of the castle. Splendid rose beds add to the beauty of the site.

Audio commentaries can be downloaded from the Château de Modave website for more information about the garden and its facilities,

Walking, cycling, driving to explore the region

The romantiscism of the Condroz Region - Amid Fortifications and Roman

Get inspired by this itinerary, by car, walk and cycle in the Condroz Region: there are so many castles to admire.

 

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This information is given for indication purposes only, best to check with the site you hope to visit before heading there - by phone, email, social media or simply by visiting their website.

Equipement

Cafe - Car parking - Motor Home parking - Parking

Visites

Guide available/groups - German - EN - FR - NL

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