Maaltebruggekasteel

Maaltebruggekasteel is a classicist-style mansion set within Maaltebruggepark, on the southern edge of Ghent, Belgium, a few kilometers from the city's historic core. It may not be Ghent's most famous landmark, but its story stretches back to the 18th century and is closely tied to one of the region's notable bourgeois families.

Where does the estate come from?

The building most likely dates to 1754. On the Ferraris map, drawn up between 1771 and 1778, the site of today's estate still appears under the name "De Blauwe Poorte" (the Blue Gate) — evidence that the location had an identity of its own even before the current residence was built. By the early 19th century, the property had come to be known as Château Maaltebrugge.

Who lived at the castle?

Around the turn of the 19th century, the estate passed into the hands of Hubert Lousbergs. He gave it to his daughter Henriette Lousbergs on the occasion of her marriage to Felix de Hemptinne in 1815. From that point on, Maaltebruggekasteel became the summer residence of the de Hemptinne family, used as a retreat during the warmer months, away from the bustle of the city. The main building was constructed in classicist style, while the adjoining chapel, the Maaltebruggekasteelkapel, was built in neo-Gothic style — a contrast that remains one of the more striking features of the whole ensemble today.

The de Hemptinne family occupied the estate for well over a century. Charles de Hemptinne, the last family member to live there, left the castle for good in 1940.

What happened to the castle afterward?

After the de Hemptinne family departed, the estate's role changed. In 1955, the City of Ghent purchased both the castle and its surrounding park. For a time the building served as a rest home for the elderly, but over the following decades it fell into disrepair and lost much of its former grandeur.

The turning point came in 1999, when the property was bought by Frank De Palmenaer, founder of the ABO-Groep company. The new owner carried out a thorough renovation, restoring the building to a presentable state. Since 2005, Maaltebruggekasteel has operated as an event and banqueting venue, hosting weddings, conferences, and corporate gatherings.

What can visitors see today?

Visitors today can admire the classicist architecture of the main building, set amid the greenery of Maaltebruggepark, alongside the neo-Gothic chapel standing right next to it — an unusual pairing of two distinct architectural styles within a single estate. The park surrounding the castle is open to the public and offers a pleasant spot for a walk for residents of southern Ghent.

Frequently asked questions

Can Maaltebruggekasteel be visited? The building currently operates as a private event and banqueting venue, so access to the interior depends on the events held there. The surrounding park is open to the public.

How old is the castle? The building dates to around 1754, though the site itself has an earlier history, reflected in its 18th-century name "De Blauwe Poorte."

Who owned the castle? For most of its history, the estate was the summer residence of the de Hemptinne family, one of Ghent's notable bourgeois families.

Where exactly is the castle located? Maaltebruggekasteel lies within Maaltebruggepark, on the southern edge of Ghent, Belgium.