Castle Wijenburg

Echteld, Netherlands, Netherlands

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Castle Wijenburg in Echteld, Netherlands, dates back to the 12th century as a fortified tower in the Duchy of Guelders, first mentioned in 1178 and owned by the influential Van Wijhe family from 1271 for nearly five centuries, evolving into a major political center by 1400.

In 1492, Lord Otto van Wijhe clashed with Duke Charles of Gelre after backing Burgundy's enemies, leading to his imprisonment, torture, and the castle's destruction by fire with its moat filled in, though it was rebuilt and reshaped in the 16th century under Jasper van Wijhe.

Passing through families like Van Wassenaer and Van Balveren, it faced demolition early in the 20th century but was saved by Baron van Verschuer in 1928 and restored by Stichting Geldersche Kasteelen since 1956, now serving as a popular wedding venue.