In Auderghem, where Brussels begins to breathe to the rhythm of the trees, a mysterious castle seems to have been abandoned by time. The Château de Trois-Fontaines, also known as Kasteel Dry Borren, is one of the capital’s most intriguing historical relics. And it is nestled on the edge of the Sonian Forest…
A medieval fairytale setting in the heart of the woods
It’s hard to imagine that just a few kilometers from downtown , a real medieval castle once stood . First mentioned in 1329, the Château de Trois-Fontaines was originally linked to the Dukes of Brabant. They used it as a hunting lodge and as the residence of the gruyer, the official responsible for overseeing the forests and hunts. Its location is no accident. Surrounded by water and greenery, near the Clabots vyver pond, the site must have offered a setting that was as peaceful as it was strategic.
In its heyday, the estate was much larger than the building visible today. The castle included a keep, several residential wings, and defensive features characteristic of a fortified residence. Surrounded by water, accessible via a bridge and a drawbridge, it formed an impressive complex amidst the wooded landscape.
The current castle is therefore only a fragment of that vanished history. The medieval keep was destroyed over the centuries, although some traces still remain in the preserved building. The rear façade and the great hall with its Gothic fireplace, dating from the 15th century, still evoke the site’s former prestige.
A charming ruin, where history meets nature
After several centuries of transformations, the Château de Trois-Fontaines is turning a new page in its history. Restored in the 1970s and listed as a historic monument in 1986, it now houses the activities of the Maison de l’Autisme de Bruxelles. The venue offers a peaceful, green setting for meetings, workshops, and opportunities for exchange—all while taking full advantage of its exceptional location on the edge of the forest.
This new purpose gives the castle a special character. Once a place for forest surveillance and detention, it has now become a space dedicated to hospitality, sharing, and inclusion. A rather symbolic evolution for a building that has constantly changed its role over the generations!
An ideal Brussels getaway for lovers of hidden gems
The Château de Trois-Fontaines is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a little local secret. Here, there are no crowds or long lines… Just ancient stones, century-old trees, and that pleasant feeling of traveling.
For a Sunday stroll or simply a break from the city noise, a detour to Auderghem is well worth it. Near the Rouge-Cloître and the Sonian Forest, the castle is situated in one of the capital’s most beautiful green spaces. A discreet, almost mysterious place, it serves as a reminder that Brussels still has many hidden stories to explore.
📍Address: Chau. de Wavre 2241, 1160 Auderghem
