The castle of Lavaux-Sainte-Anne, nature and cultural heritage in Rochefort

History

This striking fortified castle dates back to the 15th century. It combines medieval and Renaissance architecture with three distinctive domed towers and a keep surrounded by a moat with a drawbridge. The buildings fell into disrepair in the 19th century but were faithfully and extensively restored in the 1930s. Today the chateau demonstrates how successive generations kept abreast of the changing techniques of warfare which rendered the massive keeps and battlements obsolete.

3 museums

There are three museums now housed in the chateau:

• the museum of the Lords of Lavaux shows daily life in the castle of the 17th century
• the Natural History Museum on the first floor is dedicated to the flora and fauna of the Famenne region
• in the vast medieval basements and dungeons, there also is a Museum of Rural Life in the 19th century.

An ecological zone

Outside the castle, beyond the moat, a wetland area with lakes and reed beds has been created with bird watching hides and viewing platforms connected by raised walkways.

Family fun

Visitors can explore the castle solo or join a guided tour (booking requested) in French, English or Dutch. The little ones can dress up as princesses or knights and imagine their own adventures.