Modave castle - Historical castle in a natural surroundings

Its natural surroundings...

Situated on a rock 60 meters (200 feet) above the valley of the Hoyoux river, the castle offers a magnificent view over the surrounding nature reserve of 450 hectares (1100 acres) from the recently restored terrace.

Its history ...

The castle was the house of several famous owners, among them the Count de Marchin to whom it owes its present appearance. It was also the residence of Maximilian-Henry of Bavaria, Prince Bishop of Liège, the Cardinal von Fürstenberg and the families de Montmorency, Lamarche and Braconier. Since 1941 it belongs to VIVAQUA.

Its archtitecture ...

Modave castle, built in the middle ages, was partly demolished in the 17th century. Afterwards, it was restored with a classical façade turning it into an elegant country house. The formal gardens, designed in the olden days, add to its charm.

Its decorations ...

Remarkable 17th century stuccowork decorates the ceilings while the walls are covered with carved panelling, tapestries and large paintings. The furniture, with some exceptional 18th and 19th century pieces, fits perfectly into this historic setting.

Its hydraulic wheel...

One of the rooms is dedicated to the hydraulic wheel built in Modave in the 17th century. Tradition says it was invented by Renkin Sualem. It is without doubt this wheel which was the model for the machine at Marly that brought the water from the river Seine to the palace of Versailles.

More ...

An audioguide available in five languages enabling visitors to discover this unique place, belonging since 1993 to the Major Heritage of Wallonia.