Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The castle of Salperwick, also known as the Sauburuit castle, was originally built in the Middle Ages as a country residence for the monks of Saint Bertin. At that time, it was already a major agricultural estate. The current structure is mainly the result of successive reconstructions after fires, particularly in the late 16th and 18th centuries, which profoundly transformed the building.

In the 17th century, the castle was rebuilt after a fire and then underwent a new partial reconstruction in the 18th century. Around 1840, major modifications took place, such as the demolition of the two pavilions and work on the east façade. The T wing, added in the 18th century on the north facade, and the two pavilions surrounding the south facade, illustrate the architectural evolution of the site. The commons, located to the north, are the oldest parts, probably dating from the seventeenth century.

The interiors of the castle are distinguished by woodwork and stuccatures, rare in the region, which bear witness to exceptional craftsmanship. The south facade, soberly decorated in the 19th century, and the Italian inspiration of the exterior facades of the communes add to its unique character. The castle, classified as Historic Monument in 2001, also includes a park, thus preserving a coherent architectural and landscaped ensemble.

Today, Salperwick Castle is fully protected, including its interior decorations and park. Its history reflects the architectural and social transformations of the region, from its monastic origin to its role as aristocratic residence, through periods of reconstruction and beautification.

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