Belgium Zellaer Castle

The history of castle Zellaer probably dates back at least to the 13th century. At that time there was a watercastle on the spot where the current castle now stands. Several high clergymen lived there, several mayors of Mechelen, a mayor of Bonheiden, wealthy businessmen, some graves and a baron. Because of this succession of different residents, a lot of renovation works and new constructions have been carried out on the domain. Several castles have stood on the same spot within the domain. The current Zellaer castle, a neo-Gothic watercastle, was built between 1888 and 1892.

In 1962, the lay order Foyer de Charité became the owner of the domain and for almost 60 years it served as a centre of reflection. In 2017, the municipality of Bonheiden became the owner of 20% of the Zellaer domain, while 80% remains the property of the Foyer. At the same time, the municipality and the Foyer gave the entire domain to Kempens Landschap on a long lease. The domain was given a public purpose and is accessible to all.

If you come by car, drive into the park, there is parking just in front of the castle.