Bouillon Castle

About

Bouillon castle’s origins date back so far that nobody knows when the first castle was built on this rocky outcrop above the Semois River, though it was first mentioned in 988. The castle as it stands today was mostly constructed between 1050 and 1067 by Godfrey of Bouillon - a major figure in the First Crusade and the first ruler of the Kingdom of Jerusalem. After a 20 day siege, Louix XIV captured the castle and had the famous architect Vauban make some alterations to the fortifications to update them for modern warfare. The oldest feudal monument in Belgium, exploring Bouillon is brings you back to the Middle Ages with murky tunnel passages, gloomy cells, rough-hewn stairways, and plenty of shadowy crannies to uncover. There are also several surprises like a special cellar for aging Bouillon’s signature cheese, a calligraphy museum, and falconry displays. For more information, please visit bouilloninitiative.be