The medieval festival at Elewijt Castle, in the Flanders countryside

Classed as part of the Kingdom of Belgium’s built heritage since 2009, Pierre Paul Rubens’s former chateau, also known as the Het Steen Castle, is located in the commune of Zemst, in Western Flanders. The celebrated baroque painter transformed a feudal fortress from the 14th century into a Renaissance-style chateau, before it became a State prison.

Events with a medieval theme at Elewijt Castle

This mansion sits in vast gardens of an area of 8 hectares. The estate contains 3 other residences, with a total of 33 bedrooms spread over 900 m² of living space, with 5 reception rooms fitted with chimneys. These are used for medieval-themed events and historical reconstitutions, thanks to the assistance of artists and extras.

Deep in the forest, the estate outbuildings in themselves are a magnificent property. © DR

The court of the Duchy of Brabant held forth in this salon with majestic arcades. © DR

A great table can be laid for guests in front of the fireplace for meals that will live on in memory. © DR

Knights’ tourneys and artisans’ market

The site, which can welcome up to 2 000 people, can host knights’ tourneys, epic battles, swordfights, archery and old-world markets, where you will be tempted by medieval artisans, like the tin foundry, chandlers, blacksmiths, to the sound of the cannon’s roar. A heroic spectacle, enough to give you ideas about acquiring the estate for yourself...

In each tourney, the lance-men undergo intensive training to learn how to bear arms. © Ritchie Seyden

For these historical shows, which require very considerable organisation, a casting process selects artists and extras. © Ritchie Seyden