Nestled in the quaint town of Ternat in Belgium, Castle De Mot, or Kasteel De Mot as it's known locally, stands as a testament to the region's rich history and architectural elegance. Originally constructed in 1719, this captivating water castle, once surrounded by a protective moat, has witnessed centuries of change and transformation. Today, it serves as the town's municipal building, blending its historical charm with modern functionality.
The origins of Castle De Mot trace back to a medieval motte-and-bailey structure, a type of fortification that was common in the region. Archival records from the Flemish Brabant heritage service reveal that the site initially housed a fortified motte, complete with a wide moat visible on historical maps like the Ferraris map of the Austrian Netherlands from the late 18th century. This moat was filled in between 1860 and 1870, marking a significant change in the castle's landscape.
In 1719, Sebastianus De Heze, a visionary builder, erected the current Renaissance-style castle on the site, preserving the original motte structure. The castle's façade proudly displays the completion year, '1719', etched into its brickwork, symbolizing a new era of architectural splendor.
Castle De Mot is a quintessential example of Flemish Renaissance architecture, characterized by its traditional brickwork and sandstone base. The building features a double house with five bays and two stories, crowned with a steep slate hipped roof adorned with wooden dormer windows. The central bay rises into a square turret, complete with bell-shaped openings, adding a touch of grandeur to the structure.
The entrance door is framed by a dignified bluestone surround, above which sits an image of Saint Gertrude, a revered early medieval saint and abbess, sheltered under a dripstone. Flanking the main building are smaller annexes, constructed in the 19th and 20th centuries, that harmonize with the castle's brick and sandstone aesthetics.
The castle has seen a myriad of owners over the centuries, with its earliest known proprietors being Jan Van Cutsem and Maria van de Voorde in the late 17th century. By 1845, the property was sold to the Ternat municipal government and subsequently transformed into the town's administrative center. This transition marked the beginning of its new role as a public building, while still retaining its historical essence.
After World War I, a German cannon, known as the Mörser 10, was left behind and displayed on the grounds in front of the old town hall. This artillery piece, a predecessor to the infamous Big Bertha, was eventually removed in 1934 by military orders, yet it remains a poignant reminder of the area's wartime history.
In a municipal session on May 17, 1894, it was decided to install a stone well in front of the town hall due to the poor quality of the existing water source. By the early 1900s, a decorative bluestone pump was added, enhancing the site's historical ambiance. After a series of restorations, the pump was returned to its near-original location in 2016, complete with an informational plaque detailing the site's significance.
In 1850, the castle was repurposed as the town hall, maintaining its original structure until the late 19th century. The moat was filled in to accommodate additional school buildings in the rear garden. In 1977, Castle De Mot officially became the municipal building for Greater Ternat. The surrounding walls and gates, with their 18th-century arches, provide access to the community school playground, further integrating the castle into the fabric of town life.
Recognized for its historical and artistic value, Castle De Mot has been classified as a protected monument since March 5, 1958. It is also registered as architectural heritage in Belgium, ensuring its preservation for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
Castle De Mot is more than just a building; it is a living symbol of Ternat's history, resilience, and community spirit. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this enchanting castle offers a glimpse into the past while celebrating its enduring legacy in the present.
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