Merkem Castle, also called Coninck de Merckem Castle.
The castle burned down in 1381, was rebuilt, was destroyed during the religious disputes in 1566, and was rebuilt again. In 1764 it was bought by Jean Jacques van Outryve, who renovated it in a classicist style. In 1797 the castle passed to the De Coninck family by marriage.

During the 1st half of the 19th century, the castle was again expanded, including the addition of stables and a coach house, giving the complex a U-shaped plan. A tower was also added. In the 3rd quarter of the 19th century, the park was extended to the west.


Merkem Castle, 1916
At the end of October 1914, the Germans took possession of the castle and park and set up a lookout post, while several bunkers were also built. Park and castle were destroyed.

From 1923 a new castle was built, designed by Jules Coomans. The park was also restored.

For the moment the weather is very mild in Belgium, for the time of the year it is too hot, we still measure 24°C (75.25°F). Occasional rain showers, which should normally be freezing. So I was able to find the time between two rain showers to fly again.

Great Shots       

Great capture.    Quite the story behind Merkem Castle.

Very nice capture and edit!

Very nice!  Thank you for sharing this.

DAFlys Posted at 10-31 02:09
Great Shots

Thanks

DowntownRDB Posted at 10-31 02:50
Great capture.    Quite the story behind Merkem Castle.

Thanks

Montfrooij Posted at 10-31 04:39
Very nice capture and edit!

Thanks

Frank Alonso Posted at 10-31 06:20
Very nice!  Thank you for sharing this.

Thanks

K-Castello Posted at 10-31 07:14
Thanks

Its my pleasure.     

K-Castello Posted at 10-31 07:15
Thanks

You're welcome!

K, thank you for the historical perspective it adds so much to an already great shot. Thanks!

An impressive place

Very nice image, thanks for sharing.

K-Castello Posted at 10-31 07:15
Thanks

You're most welcome.