The Commanderij Gruitrode is a fascinating place. The original Commanderij was built here in 1418. Unfortunately, after some serious squabbles between families, that building was destroyed. The current Commanderij was built between 1485 and 1568. Until 1801, it was one of the subordinate commanderies under
Alden Biesen. If it looks familiar to you, it's because it's also home to the
Royce Feesten (Royal Festival) that's held in the summer.
Today, the Commanderij was host to a small but lovely Christmas Market.
Santa (at least the one present today) is the owner. He was a very friendly gentleman and told us that if weren't so busy hosting as Santa today, he would invite us inside for a cup of coffee. Wouldn't that be fantastic?
The Commandery has changed owners several times over the years, and fell into a state of disrepair. The current owner acquired it in 2003, and has been slowly restoring it to it's former glory ever since. We're so happy that he's doing so, because the buildings and property are beautiful.
There are lovely gardens and a moat behind the main buildings. Can you just imagine how beautiful this is in the summer?
We had a great time wandering around the Christmas Market and checking out the historic buildings. Who could ask for a more perfect was to spend a Winter's day?
The Commanderij Gruitrode is a fascinating place. The original Commanderij was built here in 1418. Unfortunately, after some serious squabbles between families, that building was destroyed. The current Commanderij was built between 1485 and 1568. Until 1801, it was one of the subordinate commanderies under Alden Biesen. If it looks familiar to you, it's because it's also home to the Royce Feesten (Royal Festival) that's held in the summer. 
Today, the Commanderij was host to a small but lovely Christmas Market. 
Santa (at least the one present today) is the owner. He was a very friendly gentleman and told us that if weren't so busy hosting as Santa today, he would invite us inside for a cup of coffee. Wouldn't that be fantastic? 
The Commandery has changed owners several times over the years, and fell into a state of disrepair. The current owner acquired it in 2003, and has been slowly restoring it to it's former glory ever since. We're so happy that he's doing so, because the buildings and property are beautiful.
There are lovely gardens and a moat behind the main buildings. Can you just imagine how beautiful this is in the summer?
We had a great time wandering around the Christmas Market and checking out the historic buildings. Who could ask for a more perfect was to spend a Winter's day?
No comments:
Post a Comment