Bornem Castle (Belgium)

Castle Marnix de Saint-Aldegonde was renovated by the architect Henri Beyaert at the end of the 19th century. He kept the superb proportions of the renaissance castle built by the Spanish nobleman don Pedro Coloma.
The guided tour focuses on the 16th century and the wonderful paintings of Margaret of Austria, the emperor Charles V and Philip II carry the visitor away to this troubled but exciting era of the history of the Low Countries.

The castle possesses a collection of 18th century furniture, splendid engravings by Pieter Breughel the Elder, a lace cabinet and a room with antique dolls. The lay-out of the collection is testimony of the passion of the owners to host visitors in this exceptional space.

To complete the visit there's a permanent exhibition on Philip de Marnix, secretary to William of Orange. It pays tribute to the author of the Dutch national hymn, the “Beehive” and who was also mayor of Antwerp and courageous defender of the city against Alexander Farnese and his men.

In the annexes a charming carriage museum shows a collection of perfectly preserved antique carriages.