Montaigle Castle
Château fort de Montaigle

14th century castle ruins. Surrounded by nature with views of the nearby valleys, Montaigle Castle is a hidden gem.

Belgium is famous for its castles. But have you seen the castle ruins? Nature has reclaimed this fortress of history and made it something totally different. Montaigle Castle dates back to the 14th century. Enjoy the views of ruins from a distance or get up close for a small entry fee. Close to Falaen, one of the prettiest villages around, the castle is a hidden gem out in Namur.

A visit to the Montaigle ruins starts with a mini museum visit next to the ticket office. The Archaeological Museum is small but has some interesting pieces showing what the Middle Ages was like, plus a scale model of the castle. Right at the start, you’ll get an info leaflet.

Go on a self-guided tour, armed with a trusty leaflet in English, Dutch, German and French to these 14th century ruins.

The Castle Ruins

Go down the long fortified path to get your ruin exploration started. Once protected by two gates, only bits and pieces of the old castle are still around. Pass through the old gate entrance to enter the courtyard.

• Courtyard: at the castle courtyard, you’ll find the ruins of a well and houses. Look to the east side to find the garrison ruins. The castle nobles and garrison capitan lived over on the west side.
• Valley views: get to the top of the ruins for a panoramic view of the valleys alleys Molignée and Flavion
• Ruins of history: built in the 14th century, by the Dampierre family who once ruled over Namur. Montaigle Castle was destroyed in 1554 by King Henry II of France. Archeological digs have found traces of a Roman fort from 260 AD here too.