Baljuwhuis

Baljuwhuis is a historic bailiff's residence in Gaasbeek, in the Belgian province of Flemish Brabant. Construction took place between 1602 and 1606, commissioned by Thomas Spruyt, lord of Zandvliet and bailiff of the Land of Gaasbeek. The bailiff held the highest administrative post in the territory, tasked with enforcing justice and ensuring taxes were correctly collected on behalf of the local authorities.

What did the original structure look like?

The Baljuwhuis was built as a fortified residence surrounded by water, known in Dutch as a waterburcht. Its setting among ponds, meadows and orchards, together with its square footprint, has survived largely unchanged for centuries. Two residential wings, arranged in an L-shape, frame a central courtyard, while the remaining sides are enclosed by brick walls, round defensive towers and a gatehouse. This combination served both a defensive function and a representative one, protecting the official while signaling the authority of his office.

Why was the house rebuilt?

The Baljuwhuis has not had a peaceful past: it was partially destroyed by French troops under Marshal Villeroy. It was subsequently rebuilt in the early 18th century. Traces of these different building phases remain visible today — the north wing reflects the Flemish Renaissance style and is topped by a slate-covered saddle roof, while the west wing dates from the 18th century and is likewise finished in slate.

What changed after 1870?

A turning point in the estate's history came in 1870, when the Baljuwhuis was purchased by the Marquis d'Arconati. It was then that the moats — remnants of the original water-surrounded fortification — were filled in using soil taken from the surrounding motte. This altered the character of the building's immediate surroundings, though the overall layout of the estate, with its courtyard, residential wings and enclosing walls, remained clearly recognizable.

What is the Baljuwhuis's heritage status?

Given its historical and architectural significance, the Baljuwhuis was granted official heritage protection on 8 March 1946. The building is currently inhabited by businessman Piet Van Waeyenberge, who has also restored the nearby former Dairy building, converting it into a library and cultural space.

Frequently asked questions

When was the Baljuwhuis built? It was completed between 1602 and 1606, commissioned by Thomas Spruyt, bailiff of the Land of Gaasbeek.

What exactly did the bailiff do? The bailiff was the highest administrative official of the Land of Gaasbeek, responsible for the administration of justice and the collection of taxes.

Is the Baljuwhuis still surrounded by a moat? No — the moats were filled in after the Marquis d'Arconati acquired the estate in 1870.

Who lives in the Baljuwhuis today? Businessman Piet Van Waeyenberge currently lives there, and he also restored the nearby former Dairy building, turning it into a library and cultural space.