Information about this striking building complex is very scarce. Archaeological research suggests that the oldest parts date back to the mid-17th century. Little of those historical structures can be seen today. The ‘little chateau’ is said to be linked to clay extraction for the production of bricks. However, it is no longer possible to determine who originally built it and when.
The lack of historical background is due to the fact that the entire complex was never designated as architectural heritage. Remarkable, considering the building does contain some striking historical features, such as a number of bas-reliefs depicting the Stations of the Cross of Jesus. Although these did not belong to the original building complex. They were salvaged from the chapel of a nearby monastery and incorporated by the last owner of Chateau d'Or.
The last owner was a wealthy entrepreneur who was originally a landscape architect (as is evident from the layout of the gardens surrounding the estate), but made his fortune laying turf. He lived in the chateau, together with his wife—to whose family the estate originally belonged—for no less than seventy years.
The lord of the manor was a well-known figure in the Belgian 'beau monde’. He regularly received famous guests from home and abroad. Chic parties were regularly organized at the castle. However, over the last few years, the castle and the surrounding estate gradually fell into disrepair. It proved too difficult for the now elderly residents to maintain.
At the end of 2020, the last lord of the manor passed away, and with that, the fate of Chateau d'Or was sealed. The picturesque little chateau would soon disappear under the wrecking ball. It made way for yet another exorbitantly expensive but soulless residential area with houses that are one of thirteen to a dozen... A terrible shame!
You can not copy the content of this page.
