Nieuwermolen

Nieuwermolen Castle in Sint-Ulriks-Kapelle (Dilbeek) is an exceptional property surrounded by ponds, greenery, and woods. Despite its proximity to the Brussels metropolitan area, it has managed to preserve its rural character. For centuries, the property, which was mainly passed down through the female line, remained in the possession of families of lawyers. In 1879, it passed into the hands of the de Ghellinck d'Elseghem family, the current owners. The unique feature of Nieuwermolen is that the estate has remained virtually unchanged since 1623, while most castles have been renovated in an eclectic or historicist style and their parks redesigned in a landscape style.

Five figurative maps preserved in its rich domestic archives – four of which were drawn by surveyors from the De Deken family – provide information about the history of its architecture and gardens. Between 1928 and 1933, the castle underwent a complete but respectful renovation under the direction of architect Paul Saintenoy at the request of Amaury Marc de Ghellinck and his family, the first permanent residents of the castle.

This book describes the estate's location in the landscape and the history of the successive families who have occupied the castle. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of the buildings and the renovation work carried out in the 1930s, as well as the evolution of the gardens. Amaury Marc de Ghellinck's pocket diaries are a valuable source of information about the renovation and daily life at the castle in the first half of the 20th century. Readers are also treated to a series of surprising stories about a bomber crash, a mysterious cellar, lions in a star-shaped wood, a bower with a serpentine hedge, remarkable trees, and a vertical wheel mill.

Throughout the chapters, a series of sidebars explore different themes and highlight key figures such as landscape architect Louis Breydel, architect Paul Saintenoy, and sculptor Jacques de Lalaing.

Art historian Chris De Maegd, who has drawn on her experience in the heritage sector, and photographer Bart Dewaele offer a richly researched and illustrated work. While a celebrity biography evokes their personality and past, this publication highlights the uniqueness and history of the one-of-a-kind Nieuwermolen estate.