Crupet Castle

Crupet Castle is located in the village of Crupet, within the province of Namur, Belgium. Its origins trace back to the medieval period, with some authors suggesting the 11th or 12th century. However, architectural evidence points to a more probable construction during the first half of the 13th century. The lordship of Crupet is first recorded in 1278, and the earliest mention of a building on the site, referred to as the “mannoir de Cripeit,” dates from 1304.

Initially, the castle consisted of a strong donjon, or fortified tower, surrounded by a deep moat. This structure belonged to the Count of Luxembourg and served as a defensive stronghold. Soon after its initial construction, additional buildings were added, creating a fortified domain that enhanced the site’s defensive and residential functions.

In the 14th century, ownership of Crupet Castle passed to the Prince-Bishop of Liège, marking a shift from secular to ecclesiastical control. Later, in 1549, the Carondelet family acquired the property. They made significant modifications, including adding a projecting upper floor with a pyramid-shaped roof to the donjon. They also built structures forming a lower courtyard, transforming the castle into a château-ferme, or fortified farmhouse.

The castle changed hands several times in the following centuries. It came under the House of Merode in either 1629 or 1667. Through inheritance and marriage, it later passed to the Count of Thiennes and subsequently to the Marquis of La Boëssière. The castle remained in noble possession until 1925.

In 1925, architect Adrien Blomme purchased Crupet Castle and undertook restoration work. He adapted the medieval structure for modern residential use. The castle was inhabited by Blomme’s descendants until recently. Today, it is owned by a Dutch family from ‘s-Hertogenbosch. Historically, the castle grounds included a hospitality establishment and a well-known trout farm located near the donjon.