Bouchout Castle

 castle, museum, listed building / architectural heritage, 15th century construction

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Bouchout Castle (Kasteel van Bouchout in Dutch) is a castle in the Flemish town of Meise, Belgium, and has its origins in the 12th century. The domain surrounding the castle is now the location of the National Botanic Garden of Belgium.

The most well-known inhabitant of the castle was Carlota, Empress of Mexico, sister of Leopold II, King of Belgium and widow of Maximilian I of Mexico, who was executed in 1867. Charlotte lived in the castle for most of her life.

Apart from the square tower, the present architecture dates from 1830. The interior was renovated radically in 1980, but lots of original features (decorated ceiling, doors, floors, wainscotting...) have been preserved. Bouchout Castle is now used for meetings, lectures and exhibitions.