At the time, Ooidonk castle was the residence of the lords of Nevele and owned by the dukes of Montmorency - including the famous Philip, Count of Horne. Ooidonk was involved in numerous social conflicts and the religious wars of the 16th century. The castle, destroyed twice, was rebuilt by Antwerp dignitary Maarten della Faille, who had the castle decorated according to the taste and spirit of the Renaissance and gave it a residential character. In 1864, the castle and the surrounding grounds were bought by senator Henri t’Kint de Roodenbeke - later president of the Senate (1892-1899) and Minister of State - and his wife Zoé de Naeyer.
History
Despite the renovation and restoration work of previous centuries, Ooidonk has always continued to shine as a jewel of flamboyant Renaissance architecture. Today, 150 years after their grandfather, the sixth count t’Kint de Roodenbeke and his three children inhabit the castle. This historical heritage forms the family’s daily living environment. With great passion, they maintain the castle and the estate, just as Count (Juan) t’Kint de Roodenbeke did before them. It is their aim that everyone - guests and visitors alike - is left with the memory of a beautiful place embellished by water, both the deep moat and the gently meandering Lys.
