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Castle · La Roche-en-Ardenne, Luxemburgo
Château féodal de La Roche
Ruins of a medieval castle on a rocky spur, between a bend of the Ourthe and the Deister hill. It has ramparts to walk, views over the town centre and the legend of the ghost of Countess Berthe.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Château féodal de La Roche
The ruins of the Château féodal stand on a rocky spur above La Roche-en-Ardenne, between a bend of the Ourthe and the slopes of the Deister. The town’s very name comes from that rock. The remaining parts were built between the 11th and 13th centuries on a site occupied long before, and the castle protected the ferrymen and the crossing of roads and rivers in the valley.
In 1331 La Roche gained the right to build walls. In 1681, Louis XIV’s army used the castle as a support base for troops moving toward Liège and Aachen, and that altered its shape considerably. In the 18th century it was abandoned and locals took stones to build houses. The Belgian state bought the ruins in 1852.
The visit follows ramparts, towers and roofless rooms, with views over the slate roofs and the river. At certain times of year the courtyard hosts archery, crafts and falconry displays.
The most told legend is that of Berthe, Countess of La Roche. Tradition says that on some fine evenings near dusk her ghost appears where she died.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour to walk the ruins and ramparts.
Best time
In summer the castle stays open longer; in winter, on weekdays, it only opens in the afternoon. Prefer the morning to avoid groups. Confirm the opening hours before you go.
How to get there
It is located on Rue du Vieux Château, above the centre. The uphill walk takes a few minutes from the Place du Bronze via steep streets.
Tip
The terrain is uneven and the castle is not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers. Wear sturdy/comfortable shoes. Admission is charged and it closes on some winter holidays, such as December 25 and January 1.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Château féodal de La Roche
Who was Countess Berthe?
She is the character of the best-known castle legend. Tradition says her ghost appears on some fair nights, around dusk, where she died.
Is the castle accessible?
Not for wheelchairs. Access is uphill and the floor of the ruins is uneven.