Gravensteen, Medieval fortress in central Ghent, Belgium
Gravensteen is a castle fortress in the heart of Ghent with a central stone keep, surrounded by high walls and numerous towers that rise above the medieval cityscape. The entire fortification is enclosed by a moat that remains visible today.
The fortress was built around 1180 by Philip of Alsace to demonstrate power and control the city's trade. It remained one of the strongest military structures in Flanders for centuries.
The castle displays medieval weapons and objects that reflect the daily life and power structures of that time. Walking through its rooms shows how authority and justice were exercised in medieval Flanders.
Visitors can climb the ramparts, descend into the dungeons, and explore the various rooms of the castle, with multilingual audio guides available to help navigate. The interior is open daily and allows plenty of time to walk through all areas.
In 1949, students entered the castle to protest rising beer prices and changes to police uniforms. This remains the only known time the fortress was overtaken through such an occupation.
Location: Ghent
Inception: 1180
Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible
Address: Sint-Veerleplein 11
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00-18:00
Phone: +3292259306
Email: historischehuizen@stad.gent
Website: https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/castle-counts
GPS coordinates: 51.05722,3.72056
Latest update: December 14, 2025 21:00
Belgium preserves numerous historical sites and natural areas that remain outside the usual tourist circuits. The country contains medieval fortifications, castles from various periods, and protected areas that provide insight into its military and cultural past. The Hallerbos forest transforms...
Flanders in Belgium is a region with a rich history stretching back centuries. Visitors find medieval town centers, old castles, cathedrals, and museums that tell stories of trade, art, and craftsmanship. Cities like Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp display the architecture and culture of earlier times,...
Huis van Alijn
208 m
Groot Vleeshuis
163 m
Design Museum Gent
157 m
Caermers monastry
196 m
De Gekroonde Hoofden
130 m
Caermersklooster
199 m
Oude vismijn
100 m
Execution Bridge
90 m
Grasbrug
191 m
Infokantoor Toerisme Gent
113 m
Vleeshuisbrug
144 m
Maison De Beerie
220 m
Viskopershuis
161 mTinnenpot
205 m
De Hazewind
215 m
Lievebrug
122 m
Sint-Catharinakapel
203 mSABBATTINItheater
175 mAi Nati Oggi
77 mHet Burgcentrum
175 mNTGent Arca
61 mDING Vitrine
187 mGedenkbeeld vermiste personen
44 mInstallation artwork, Work of art
140 mMemorial, statue
77 mWater well
193 mCatholic church building, wayside shrine, Christianity
195 mMemorial, commemorative plaque
194 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes