Alden Biesen is the former Land Commandery of the Teutonic Order in Rijkhoven, Bilzen and until 1795 the headquarters of the Biesen bailiwick. Alden Biesen has now been developed into a cultural centre of the Flemish Government. The architectural design of the complex reveals a surprising duality between, on the one hand, a secluded medieval moated castle with military significance and on the other, a vast, open, classically conceived castle.
Photography: Walter E. L. Somers
