Oude Pastorie

Oude Pastorie is a former vicarage in Kraainem, a small municipality in Flemish Brabant right on the edge of Brussels. The building stands in the heart of the park surrounding Jourdain Castle, among mature trees and a pond where swans and ducks glide across the water — one of the more picturesque corners of the municipality, though it rarely draws visitors from beyond the region.

Where does the building come from?

The current vicarage was built in 1652, a date still visible carved into the door frame. It follows the construction style typical of that period, combining brick with sandstone, which gives the facade the characteristic striped pattern found in many Flemish religious and residential buildings from the 17th century. The house served its original purpose — housing the local parish priest — for well over two and a half centuries.

How did its role change over time?

The building functioned as the parish house until roughly 1906, when a new vicarage was constructed for the priest, this time near the municipal town hall. The old pastorie lost its original purpose but was not abandoned. Around 1931 it underwent further adaptation and was extended, allowing it to be reused for new purposes.

Why was the building granted heritage protection?

Given its historical and architectural value, Oude Pastorie was placed under heritage protection in 1976. The listing was meant to safeguard its distinctive shape and facade details from further uncontrolled alterations. Another key milestone came with a thorough restoration carried out in 1990, which returned the building to a presentable condition and allowed it to keep being used.

What can visitors see there today?

Following its restoration, the former vicarage took on a new role — it now houses a catering establishment operating as a tavern-restaurant. Guests can sit down inside the historic rooms and afterwards take a walk through the surrounding park of Jourdain Castle. It is precisely this combination of historic architecture with a calm, green setting — a pond, waterfowl, and old trees — that draws both local residents and people looking for a quiet spot close to Brussels.

Where exactly is it located?

Oude Pastorie stands at Pastoorkesweg 1 in Kraainem, surrounded by the castle park. This location makes it easy to combine a visit here with exploring Jourdain Castle itself and taking a stroll through the immediate surroundings, without having to travel far.

Frequently asked questions

What year does the building date from? The current vicarage was built in 1652, a date carved into its door frame.

How long did the building serve as a parish house? Until around 1906, when a new vicarage was built closer to the town hall.

Is the building legally protected? Yes, it has been listed as a heritage site since 1976 due to its historical and architectural value.

What is inside the building now? Following a 1990 restoration, it houses a tavern-style restaurant open to visitors of the castle park.

Is it worth combining a visit with other nearby attractions? Yes, the building sits within the park of Jourdain Castle, so both can naturally be explored during the same walk.