About this place
Groot-Bijgaarden Castle is a 12th-century castle located in Groot-Bijgaarden, part of the municipality of Dilbeek in the province of Flemish Brabant, Belgium. The site sits at an elevation of 47 metres (154 ft), with geographic coordinates 50.873617, 4.264042.
Who was the castle built for?
The castle's origins trace back to the 12th century, when it was built for Almaric de Bigard, the first lord of Bigard. This connection to Almaric de Bigard links the site directly to the earliest recorded lordship of the area, and the very name of the surrounding settlement, Groot-Bijgaarden, echoes this historical association with the Bigard lineage. Beyond this founding figure, no further details about subsequent owners or alterations are confirmed here.
Where exactly is the castle located?
Groot-Bijgaarden Castle stands in the settlement of the same name, which forms part of the municipality of Dilbeek. Dilbeek itself lies within the province of Flemish Brabant, one of the regions of Belgium bordering Brussels, placing the castle within easy reach of the Belgian capital. The surrounding terrain sits at an elevation of 47 metres, consistent with the gently rolling landscape typical of this part of Flanders.
What are the castle's coordinates?
The site's precise geographic coordinates are 50.873617 north and 4.264042 east. These coordinates make it possible to pinpoint the castle accurately on digital maps and navigation tools, whether approaching from Brussels or from other towns within Flemish Brabant.
What makes this castle noteworthy in its region?
Its 12th-century origin places Groot-Bijgaarden Castle among the older fortified sites within the municipality of Dilbeek and the wider province of Flemish Brabant. The direct link to Almaric de Bigard, the first lord of Bigard, ties the location to the earliest feudal history of the area. Its proximity to Brussels means the castle can serve as a point of reference for anyone exploring the medieval defensive architecture of the region, situated as it is just outside the Belgian capital.
Frequently asked questions
When was Groot-Bijgaarden Castle built? The castle dates to the 12th century.
Who was the castle originally built for? It was built for Almaric de Bigard, the first lord of Bigard.
Which municipality is the castle part of? The castle is located in Groot-Bijgaarden, part of the municipality of Dilbeek.
In which Belgian province is Dilbeek located? Dilbeek lies in the province of Flemish Brabant.
What is the elevation of the castle site? The site sits at an elevation of 47 metres (154 ft).
What are the castle's geographic coordinates? 50.873617, 4.264042.
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