Mechelen – Repair efforts are underway at Tivoli Castle in Mechelen following a devastating fire in January 2025 that destroyed its roof. Alderman Arthur Orlians announced that a temporary roof will be installed to safeguard the structure, with full restoration projected for completion in 2027–2028, reports 24brussels.
According to VRT News, damage from the fire, which broke out at the end of January 2025, was significant, occurring while renovation work on the windows and roof was already in progress. Alderman Orlians emphasized the urgency of addressing the damage, which included the complete destruction of the roof structure and damage to other areas of the historic site. A judicial investigation is currently ongoing to ascertain the cause of the fire, and the castle has remained closed for several months.
What steps are being taken to restore Tivoli Castle after the January 2025 fire?
In response to the fire, the city promptly implemented protective measures to prevent any further damage. The main hall has been covered with a large plastic sheet to shield it from rain and wind, and a dehumidifier was installed to manage temperature and humidity levels. Additionally, certain parts of the structure were supported to avert potential collapse, and unsafe scaffolding from the fire was removed. The comprehensive roof repair work has now commenced, focusing on restoring Tivoli Castle to its original historic condition while preserving its architectural integrity.
“Now we are going to install a temporary roof to ensure the castle is not damaged any further.”
Arthur Orlians (For Mechelen), Alderman for Buildings
With the first phase of the judicial investigation complete and the site cleared, extensive repair work has now begun on Tivoli Castle. According to Alderman Orlians, the immediate focus is on installing a temporary roof.
“We’re going to install a temporary roof to ensure the building doesn’t sustain any further damage,”
he further explained. This temporary covering will protect the castle from rain and winds as experts continue to evaluate the overall damage and plan further steps. Once the temporary roof is in place, the interior spaces of the castle will be inspected and cleared, with this phase expected to be completed by the end of 2025. The city aims for Tivoli Castle to reopen to the public by 2027 or 2028.
“That will require a new design study, a contractor, and an architect, and that could take some time,”
Orlians concluded.
Tivoli Castle’s medieval architecture, which dates back to the 16th century, represents an essential part of Mechelen’s architectural heritage. Throughout its history, the castle has undergone multiple restorations to maintain its Renaissance and Baroque features.
The January 2025 fire, which significantly impacted the castle, occurred during ongoing renovation efforts. Following the incident, authorities initiated a judicial investigation to uncover the fire’s cause, leading to the castle’s closure for several months to permit thorough damage assessment by experts.
