Top Historic Sights in Ekeren, Belgium
Explore the historic highlights of Ekeren
Veltwijck Castle
Veltwijck castle consists of a U-shaped water castle from the 16th century, situated inside a rectangular moated country park, and a U-shaped farmyard on the north side with a gatehouse. The castle was built in Renaissance style.Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings
Historic Site of the week
Temple of Portunus
The Temple of Portunus or Temple of Fortuna Virilis ('manly fortune') is one of the best preserved of all Roman temples. Its dedication remains unclear, as ancient sources mention several temples in this area of Rome, without saying enough to make it clear which this is.
The temple was originally built in the third or fourth century BC but was rebuilt between 120-80 BC, the rectangular building consists of a tetrastyle portico and cella, raised on a high podium reached by a flight of steps, which it retains.
The temple owes its state of preservation to its being converted for use as a church in 872 and rededicated to Santa Maria Egyziaca (Saint Mary of Egypt). Its Ionic order has been much admired, drawn and engraved and copied since the 16th century. The original coating of stucco over its tufa and travertine construction has been lost.