Veltwijckpark

Veltwijckpark is a green space in the heart of Ekeren, a district of Antwerp, sitting right at the edge of the De Oude Landen nature area. The park surrounds the historic manor known as Hof van Veltwijck and brings together heritage architecture, sports facilities and quiet spots for relaxation among the trees.

Where does the name Veltwijck come from?

The name comes from the family that once owned the estate. The site's history goes back to the 14th century, when a moated farmstead stood here. Around 1440 the land was bought by Jan van Ursel, who had a pleasure estate — a so-called "hof van plaisantie" — built on the grounds.

When was the actual castle built?

The exact construction date of the castle itself is unknown. A 1548 record makes no mention of it, yet by 1564 documents already describe a pleasure house along with an upper and a lower courtyard. It's assumed the building was commissioned by Aert van Veltwijck, who lived on the estate at the time. It's worth noting that Hof van Veltwijck was never a fortified stronghold — from the start it functioned as a moated country retreat rather than a defensive structure.

How did the estate survive the Siege of Antwerp?

During the Siege of Antwerp in 1585, troops under Alexander Farnese destroyed most of Ekeren. Among the few buildings left standing were the Sint-Lambertuskerk church and Veltwijck itself — a detail that still marks this site out in the region's history.

How did the complex change over the centuries?

In 1795 the estate passed to Antoon Kannekels, who had the front facade demolished and part of the moat filled in. This is when the complex took on its current U-shaped layout around an inner courtyard. Kannekels is also responsible for laying out the English landscape garden that remains one of the park's main draws today.

Further changes came under Baroness de Borrekens, who around 1905 had an extra floor added to the main building.

When did the park become public property?

In 1929, the municipal government of Ekeren bought the castle and its park from Baroness de Borrekens for 3.5 million Belgian francs. From that point on, the grounds gradually turned into a space open to residents and visitors alike.

What can visitors find in Veltwijckpark today?

Today's Veltwijckpark blends historical heritage with recreational use. Visitors can stroll the paths of the English landscape garden, take in the architecture of the former manor, and make use of the sports facilities located within the park. Its proximity to the De Oude Landen nature area makes it a popular spot for both Ekeren locals and travelers looking to explore quieter corners of Antwerp beyond the city center.

Frequently asked questions

Was Veltwijckpark ever a defensive castle? No — Hof van Veltwijck was a moated pleasure estate from the very beginning, not a military fortification.

Why does the complex have a U-shaped layout today? That shape dates back to 1795, when Antoon Kannekels demolished the building's front facade and partially filled in the moat.

Since when has the park been open to the public? Since 1929, when the municipality of Ekeren purchased the estate from Baroness de Borrekens.

What else is worth seeing besides the manor building? The English landscape garden laid out in the late 18th century, and the neighboring De Oude Landen nature area.