Groot-Bijgaarden Castle, A Floral Paradise

The first foundations of this castle were laid in the 12th century by the Lords of Bijgaarden. Over the centuries, ownership of the castle changed hands many times. Among its most notable residents were Jan Estor and his mother Margriete van Baenst, who lived there in the mid-16th century. In a time of strict Catholic rule, they openly embraced Protestant ideas, a stance that would ultimately cost them their lives. Authorities laid siege to the castle, and a day and a half later, mother and son surrendered, waving a white flag. After a lengthy trial, they were sentenced to death. 

That was the end of Jan and Margriete, but not of the castle itself. A new era began In the early 20th century, The castle, which had fallen into severe disrepair, entered a new period of revival when owner Raymond Pelgrims de Bigard began a restoration project that would span 30 years. His efforts saved the estate from ruin. Around the same time, a 14-hectare park was laid out beside the castle, marking the first step towards what would become Floralia Brussels.