Castle of l’Estriverie: A Historic Estate in Lessines, Belgium

Visitor Information

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Official Website: www.cirkwi.com

Country: Belgium

Civilization: Medieval European

Remains: Military

History

The Castle of l’Estriverie is situated in Bois-de-Lessines, a village within the municipality of Lessines in the Hainaut province of Wallonia, Belgium. The estate’s origins trace back to the early 14th century when it was declared a fief in 1324 by the Counts of Hainaut. It was granted to Gérard de Lestruve, whose name became associated with the castle and the estate.

Ownership of the estate changed hands several times during the late Middle Ages. After Gérard de Lestruve, the property passed to the Hoste d’Ecaussinnes family. In 1440, it transferred to the Despretz de Quiévrain family. A significant development occurred in 1454 when Watier de Quievrains, a member of the Despretz family, constructed a fortified house on the site. This building laid the foundation for the castle as it stands today.

In 1483, the estate entered the possession of the de Cottrel family through marriage. This family maintained ownership for seven generations. During the 16th and 17th centuries, they undertook extensive renovations, transforming the original medieval fortress into a more refined and elegant château. These changes reflected a shift from purely defensive architecture to a residence emphasizing comfort and style.

The estate passed to Marie Spinola in 1727, the last niece of the de Cottrel line. She inherited the property and later transferred it to her son. In 1756, he sold the estate to Joseph Antoine de Wautier. However, this sale was contested and ultimately overturned by the court of Hainaut. Ownership was then granted to Jean Philippe d’Yve, Viscount of Bavay.

During the 19th century, the castle underwent further modifications, adopting elements of the classicist architectural style. These changes updated the château’s appearance while preserving its historical character. Today, the castle remains privately owned by the family of the Marquis d’Yve de Bavay and is recognized as a protected monument.

Remains

The Castle of l’Estriverie is built on the foundations of the fortified house erected in 1454 by Watier de Quievrains. The site retains its medieval defensive layout, including a surrounding moat that emphasizes its original military purpose. Access to the castle is provided by a fixed stone bridge spanning the moat.

Two round towers are prominent features of the castle’s fortified design, reflecting its origins as a defensive stronghold. These towers are integral to the structure and highlight the medieval military architecture of the period.

Over the centuries, the castle’s appearance evolved. The 16th and 17th-century renovations by the de Cottrel family softened the fortress’s austere character, converting it into a more elegant residence. In the 19th century, classicist style elements were added, further modifying the building’s exterior and interior.

The castle is well preserved and remains in good condition. It is officially protected as a monument, ensuring its conservation. The site is privately owned and not accessible to the public.