Assesse is a small village located in the province of Namur in Belgium. It is situated along the Meuse River, approximately 15 kilometers southeast of the city of Namur. Assesse is known for its picturesque rural setting, charming architecture, and historical significance.
The Château de Crupet is a medieval castle located near the village of Crupet, which is part of the Assesse municipality in the province of Namur, Belgium. This well-preserved castle dates back to the 12th century and is considered one of the most picturesque and remarkable feudal castles in the region.
The old mill Le Moulin des Ramiers (picture above), which was turned into a hotel. The mill is a special and lovely place to stay and provides a window into the village’s earlier years. The hotel features cozy lodging options and a restaurant serving traditional Belgian fare. Also, there are lovely grounds and a little pond all around the hotel where guests may unwind and take in the tranquil atmosphere.
Map
The Château de Crupet
The castle’s architecture exhibits a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles, showcasing the transition between these two architectural periods. It consists of a central tower, known as the keep or donjon, surrounded by defensive walls and several additional buildings.
One of the notable features of the Château de Crupet is its impressive moat, which encircles the castle and adds to its defensive character. The moat is fed by a nearby spring, ensuring a constant flow of water. Access to the castle is provided by a stone bridge crossing the moat.
Inside the castle, visitors can explore various rooms and chambers that offer a glimpse into medieval life. These include a Great Hall, a chapel, a kitchen, and living quarters. Some rooms are adorned with original medieval frescoes, adding to the historical and artistic value of the castle.
Legend and folklore are intertwined with the Château de Crupet. It is said to be haunted by the ghost of a jilted bride, known as the White Lady. According to local tales, the White Lady wanders through the castle’s corridors, perpetually mourning her lost love.
The castle is open to the public, allowing visitors to discover its history, architectural beauty, and captivating surroundings. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the castle’s past and offering a deeper understanding of medieval life and fortification techniques.
White Lady of Château de Crupet
According to the legend, there was a nobleman living in the castle who had a beautiful daughter. The young woman fell deeply in love with a handsome knight who visited the castle. The couple vowed to marry and spend their lives together.
However, the knight was called away to fight in a distant war, promising to return to the castle as soon as he could. As the months passed, the young woman eagerly awaited his return, but he never came back. Devastated by his absence, she gradually fell into despair.
In her grief and desperation, the young woman made a pact with a sorceress who claimed to possess magical powers. The sorceress offered to cast a spell to bring the knight back to her, but in return, she demanded the young woman’s soul.
The spell was cast, and the knight did return, but he was not the same. He had been transformed into an evil and soulless creature by the sorceress’s magic. Realizing the terrible mistake she had made, the young woman pleaded with the sorceress to undo the spell, but it was too late.
Consumed by guilt and regret, the young woman could not bear the sight of what her love had become. In a fit of despair, she plunged a dagger into her own heart, taking her own life. Her spirit, now known as the White Lady, became trapped within the castle walls, forever haunting the Château de Crupet.
Assesse
Tourists can explore the forests, hills, and valleys in the area and take in the breathtaking scenery. The village is a fantastic starting place for touring the surrounding area and the well-known Belgian Ardennes.
In conclusion, Assesse is a lovely village in Belgium’s Walloon province that is renowned for its picturesque surroundings, illustrious cultural history, and significant historical sites. The hamlet is the ideal location for tourists interested in history, culture, and nature because it offers a fantastic combination of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and outdoor activities. The two main sights in the village that visitors shouldn’t skip are the Château d’Assesse and the ancient mill hotel.
Gallery of Assesse and Château de Crupet
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This article uses material from the Wikipedia article https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assesse, which is released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.