Restoration of the Inner Garden

Archaeological survey reveals hidden layers

In addition to the historical research, excavation work was also done. Archaeologists from the Flanders Heritage Agency, led by Geert Vynckier, together with experts Brian Dix and Roland Dreesen, investigated the ancient garden paths and the parterres’ edging. Test trenches and soil samples revealed surprising details; for instance, the maintenance paths were once covered with orange-red brick aggregates, and the main paths consisted of a rolled asphalt-like layer, which may or may not have been finished with gravel. Drone footage and measurement plans recorded every detail.

“In Gaasbeek, the former garden paths were laid with a granular material, rolled or rammed and bonded into a solid mass, using asphalt or a substitute, with pitch or coal tar, on which may have been subsequently spread a top layer of gravel.” - Brian Dix (British garden archaeologist)

Fontain and  espalier fences

All findings are reported in detail, providing a clear picture of the original garden and its additions over time, including those made following the Expo ’58. For the purposes of an expert restoration, the replica of the famous Beaune-Semblançay fountain from Tours, along with the well, was also examined by the Lapis Arte company from Oosterzele, under the direction of Emilia De Rijcke. Finally, the traces of the former espalier fences, the elegant wooden trellis that used to hang from the castle walls, have been meticulously mapped.

Restoration plan breathes new life into Inner Garden

Meanwhile, the team led by Stijn Thomas and Hannes van Meer from Hasselt is working on the restoration plan, under the authority of the Agency for Facility Operations. The more than 120 pruned yews – the graceful topiaries that shape the space like green sculptures – will still be the heart of the courtyard garden.

“By preserving the pruning forms, the evolution, age and wild growth of the plants will be highlighted.”
- Ann Voets (Flemish garden art historian and landscape architect)

The deteriorated boxwood hedges will be replaced entirely with a durable, disease- and pest-resistant variety. A specific shrub rose type will add a splash of colour again, with a nod to the period around the Expo ’58. The current crushed bluestone will be removed, giving way to a more accessible white-beige, semi-paved area. The maintenance paths will regain their original orange-red brick aggregates. The flowery grass parterres, boasting some rare herbs, will be preserved to the utmost extent.

It will also be examined whether the fountain and well can be restored at this stage, and whether the original espalier fences can return, this time overgrown with ornamental Japanese vines.

Garden and castle soon to be reunited into an enchanting whole

If everything goes according to plan, you will soon be able to walk through a garden that once again exudes the ambience of yesteryear, but with respect for its evolution and natural growth. In turn, the castle and the courtyard garden will form a single, magnificent whole, a true Gesamtkunstwerk that blends architecture, sculpture and nature. The Renaissance character is preserved and corresponds to Marchioness Arconati Visconti’s fondness for this period.

We look forward to welcoming you to this green room soon and hope the garden will enchant you as it did the Marchioness herself.